Growing With the Help of the Great GardenerSample

Beauty In the Bonsai

A little while ago, I learned more about bonsai plants and that they grow in twisted shapes in stressful conditions.

Since we have been talking about the different environments that shape who we become, I thought it was fitting to end with talking about bonsai plants. Have a Google to see what they look like and notice how they grow in all sorts of warped and twisted shapes. However, instead of being considered an ugly tree to be thrown away…the beauty of these plants has become an art form and EXTREMELY VALUABLE!

Let that one sink in for a moment…even though we go through stresses and may become twisted and feel all out of shape and far from what God created us to be…we are considered beautiful and valuable. Isn’t it nice to know a God who chooses to wear rose-colored glasses and see us through such a loving lens?!

Throughout the past week, we have been on the journey of what it is to plant a seed, tend to the growth, and go through the challenges that come with ‘raising’ a garden. This was a way that we could relate to our Great Heavenly Gardener who tries to plant us in the best soil and keep us growing and thriving. As we go through trials in life, isn’t it comforting to know that we have someone who is always there fighting off the pests, giving us water, pulling the weeds, and seeing us as a valuable creation even if we grow a bit warped and out of shape?

I could go on and on, (I warned you there was a lot we could learn from nature!) so I’ll also just briefly mention that sun and water are probably the most vital things to consider when trying to grow a garden.

So just remember for your own life’s garden: we all need some SON and living water and a Great Gardener to tend to our needs.

Dear Great Gardener,

It can be hard to go through changes in life, and it can feel like I am all out of shape.

Help me to remember that you see me as valuable and precious. Help me to see myself that way so that I can become more confident in who I can be with you by my side.

Thank you for giving me life and love.

Amen.