For ground that has drunk the rain that has often fallen on it and that produces vegetation useful to those it is cultivated for receives a blessing from God. But if it produces thorns and thistles, it is worthless and about to be cursed, and will be burned at the end. Hebrews 6:7-8 HCSB
This spring my wife and I decided to put a small garden in the corner of our backyard. I borrowed a rototiller and prepared the soil for planting. We purchased some plants that were already started and carefully planted them in the fertile soil. Next we watered and cultivated the plants to keep the weeds at bay. Because of our work and God’s provision of rain and sun, we have enjoyed delicious, fresh vegetables this summer. As a result of our labor, we received the blessing of enjoying home grown vegetables and even had an abundance to share with neighbors and friends.
These verses in Hebrews uses the analogy of a garden to describe the importance of each believer growing and becoming more like Jesus. If we spend time in God’s Word drinking up the spiritual principles that are found there and then work diligently to cultivate them into our daily lives, we will receive a great blessing from God. If we don’t follow God’s plan for our lives, we will produce thorns and thistles and be worthless to the kingdom of God.
Challenge: Are you drinking in the wonderful rain of God’s Word into your life? Are you spending time cultivating God’s principles into every facet of your life? God wants you to grow and produce fruit. As you produce fruit and help others, you will be a blessing to them. The greatest blessing you can receive is when you know you have helped someone else. Pray that God will provide an opportunity for you to help someone in your realm of influence.