A Time to Sow: Part 2Sample

Preparation for Planting

Stepping into what God has for you takes preparation. It may take days, months, or even years to be equipped for what He has for your life. Although you may anticipate what is to come, there is still work to be done ahead of time. You have to make the soil of your heart ready for growth. Every individual is created uniquely by God and the preparation for their callings will look different.

The same concept goes for someone looking to plant something new in their garden. The Farmer’s Almanac gives three easy steps to preparing your soil for spring: clear out the rocks and debris; loosen the soil; add organic matter. The steps may seem simple, but there is more to preparing your soil than that. You have to understand the type of soil you have, the potential of the seeds, and the nutrients that will help your plant thrive.

Growth can be uncomfortable and painful. It requires getting messy; digging up the old soil, moving different pieces of dirt, and adding fertilizer. In order to cultivate a healthy harvest, you have to be a part of the process. You may need to remove stuff in your life that has held you back or will keep you from accomplishing everything God has for you. There will be certain disciplines you will have to instill in your life to help you develop.

The Parable of the Sower in Luke 8:15 reveals, “But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.” The seeds sown along the path, rocky ground, and among the thorns failed to yield a harvest – displaying the significance of planting seeds in healthy soil. To prepare your heart for growth and the harvest that is to come, you must live by the word and apply it to your life.

There may be people or circumstances in your life that God is using to get you ready for what is to come. Don’t allow fear or the comfort of your current situation to keep you from living out all God has called you to. Continue to develop disciplines that will prepare your heart for growth, and ask God to help you get rid of any hindrances. Be active and present in the preparation process.