“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6

I used to work in a program where overtly talking about God was not allowed. It took me years to resolve the fact that while I couldn’t speak the name of Jesus, I could ask God to make me into a seed planter by teaching biblically-based principles and treating my clients with love and respect. In faith, I did this as best I could, trusting God for His outcome. People came and went each month and I rarely got to know how God grew those seeds. But occasionally, I did, like with Maria.

Maria’s story included great loss – marriage, children, health and work and by the time she arrived in our career transition program, she seemed but a shell of a person. However, by our farewell luncheon, she spoke of feeling heard and cared for and ready to begin again. And then she was gone.

Years later Maria showed up unexpectedly at our office. We hardly recognized this vibrant woman who brought us up to date on her life, including meaningful work and her “chance encounter” with a local Divorce Care ministry which drew her into a deeper healing journey. She stopped at this point and stated, “You are all Christians here, aren’t you?” We confirmed her suspicion and she shared how she knew something was different about us. When she became a Christian, it clicked. Like the leper who returned to give thanks for healing, she wanted to come back and thank us for our part in her story.

Seeds matter. Where are you planting today?

Lord, please give me the courage to plant seeds, the belief that others will water, and the faith to wait while You make things grow. Amen.

Thought:  Do an act of kindness in the name of Jesus today.

by Shelaine Strom
Used by Permission

FURTHER READING

Is it Your Planting Season?

Be a Gardener

My Unfruitful Garden

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