A Time to SowSample

Cultivating a Spiritual Garden

There’s no such thing as instant spiritual maturity. To grow in our faith and walk with Christ, we have to continuously plant spiritual seeds into our lives. These seeds come through spending time with God by reading the Bible, praying and prioritizing quiet time to hear from Him. We can often get so caught up in the quickness of the world around us that we forget that time with God can’t be rushed. We may have become so used to the noise and busyness that it may take some time for us to become familiar with quieting everything around us in order to hear God’s voice.

After performing miracles, Jesus would retreat to what scripture describes as lonely places or to the mountain to pray by himself. Mark 1:35 to 37 says, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: ‘Everyone is looking for you!”’ Although people were searching for Jesus, He prioritized time alone with His Father. 

How often do you set aside time in your busy schedule to make room to be alone with God? More than likely, we neglect time with God so we can accomplish everything else scheduled for the day. Spending time with God often becomes an afterthought. Yet, when we view our lives as spiritual gardens, it can encourage us to recognize the value of the types of seeds we are planting in order to reap the right harvest. 

Our spiritual maturity is dependent on our willingness and commitment to growth. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us that Scripture is God-breathed and will help us to be thoroughly equipped to complete every good work. I believe that one of the best ways to grow in spiritual maturity (besides spending time in the word and prayer) is through being a part of the church and its ministry. We learn invaluable lessons about leading and working with others, and our faith will be tested. People will challenge what you believe, and it will help you to delve deeper into Scripture and lean on spiritual mentors. 

Although we need to nurture our spiritual gardens, we must also invest in others. The Great Commission reminds us of the significance of sharing the good news. So, when you look to plant seeds to foster spiritual growth, search for ways that you can help others grow in their faith as well. The beauty of Christianity is the brothers and sisters God has placed in our lives to spur us on.