Seed for Sowing: Entrusting our treasures to the Spirit

He who continually goes forth weeping,

Bearing seed for sowing,

Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing,

Bringing his sheaves with him.

—Psalm 126:6

My heart was hurting, my steps heavy when I set out for my morning walk, thoughts centering on hopes that hadn’t come to fruition—hopes for relationships, healings, my work and ministry, even my weight loss. Pained and bowed down, I caught glimpse of spiky seed balls at my feet. I picked one up and examined it closely. I noticed the many openings and sensed the Lord speaking.

Be like the sweetgum tree. By nature, she opens her seed ball to release the seeds to be dispersed on the wings of the wind. Where the seeds land, she does not know. Which ones take root and grow, she does not know. Yet she trusts the wind, and year by year she does it all over again.

Keep doing the good you know to do (Galatians 6:9). Let it pour from your heart, open to the Spirit’s leading (Galatians 5:25). Keep releasing those seeds of prayer, encouragement, wisdom and kindness. Keep pouring out your treasures of time, talent, even your money and your stuff (Luke 6:38). I see it. I see all your hard work, your good deeds and patient endurance (Revelation 2:19). Your prayers and kindness have not gone unnoticed (Acts 10:4). Trust the Spirit with your seeds. Allow Him to disperse them as He sees fit, in the good soil. Even though you can’t see it and don’t know how, your seeds are taking root and growing (Mark 4:27). And in time, you will come this way again rejoicing, carrying your sheaves with you.

Dear God, thank You for Your Spirit’s gentle reminder of the promises in Your Word. May I not become weary in well doing and lose heart, but may I continually bring You my seed for sowing, knowing that after a while I will reap of harvest of blessing. Amen.

Carrying Out Your Mission: Why making your bed is important

Have confidence in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not upon thy own prudence. In all thy ways think on him, and he will direct thy steps.

—Proverbs 3:5-6

“Do you always make your bed?” my niece remarked as she peeked through my open bedroom door.

Taken aback by her unexpected question, I wanted to say, “Why, of course!” Instead, I answered, “Honestly there are days I don’t, especially if I’m in a hurry. But if I’m having company, most definitely. It does make me feel better when I do.”

Since our exchange, I have pondered that question—and my response. Why do I feel better when I make my bed?

Blue Bird: Holding on in every circumstance

You are all around me, behind me and in front of me. You hold me safe in your hand.

—Psalm 139:5

It was time to change out my tabletop décor. I opened the china cabinet and carefully cupped the ceramic bird in the palm of my hand. I dared not drop it, for the pastel “baby blue” bird was special to me. It reminded me of a baby boy—and the story surrounding his birth.