Making room for growth
Initially, our summer began with rain–lots of rain. I’m not complaining. Farmers, ranchers, and gardeners dread the results of long, dry spells. But it isn’t just the good crops that flourish in heat and rain–weeds enjoy this nourishment, too. Recently, I’ve been fighting the battle of weeds in my flower beds, making room for growth of my Irises.
If you know me, even a little, you know I love Irises. They bring me such joy in April and May of each year. They are my favorites of Spring.
Photo by Katherine Pasour
But Irises require care–consistent nurturing.
Getting rid of weeds
The picture at the beginning of my message shows a flower bed in clean-up mode. On the left, I’ve trimmed the foliage of the Iris and pulled a multitude of weeds. The Irises are nearing their dormant season when they begin to focus on preparing for next year. The weeds, on the other hand, have grown profusely since the end of May when I stopped weeding and worked on other garden projects.
Because of my lack of attention, the weeds have nearly choked out the Irises.
“A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came out, the plants were scorched and they withered because they had no root. Other seeds fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants.” (Matthew 13:3b-7 NIV)
As gardeners, not only are we careful when we sow and plant, we must continue throughout the plants’ lives to nurture growth, enrich the soil, provide adequate water and fertilizer, prevent damage from varmints (deer, groundhogs, insects, etc.), and protect the plants from being choked out by weeds.
The growth of our faith requires careful nurturing as well:
- We grow in faith through Bible study, praise and worship, and serving others.
- Our relationship with Jesus is enriched through prayer, meditation, and reading of His word.
- We provide nourishment for our time with our Lord by reserving time for daily interaction with Him.
- Careful attention to weeding protects us from threats from the enemy–taking our burdens and struggles to our Father in prayer instead of allowing the challenges to take over our lives.
Thinning the Irises
When the Irises themselves become too thick, they don’t grow as big or bloom as well. It’s time to thin the flower bed, transplant some elsewhere.
When our burdens become too heavy and we’re overwhelmed by our to-do list, it’s time to “thin” our load. Ask for help–share tasks with others–allow and encourage other laborers in God’s kingdom to step forward in His service.
Making room for growth
Growing things has helped me see a connection between hard work and commitment and the process of strengthening my faith. I’ve learned I must embrace dedication, consistency, and perseverence. When the weeds get into my flowers, or into my life, it’s time to work and get them out.
What about you? Do you sometimes experience a season of “weediness?” What actions do you take eliminate weeds and strengthen your faith?
So then just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. (Colossians 2:6-7 NIV)
Love your analogies and how each is significant. Another is letting the soil rest. In the OT the land took a sabbatical:) In lonely and quiet times, sometimes we are called to rest-simply abide-and just listen to what God wants to teach and tell us. That’s something He has been showing me recently.
Such an important analogy, Marilyn–thank you. It is vital that we take that “rest-simply abide” time with God to recover, renew,and refresh in His caring embrace. I’m so grateful you shared your thoughts.
Ive always wondered why weeds can grow so easily, but our plants need so much care. Your analogy shows us this same principle with our souls. The flesh defaults to what is easy and weed thoughts can take root in our minds. We must nurture our souls with good food from the Word of God to bloom and blossom. Your irises are beautiful. For some reason, mine didn’t bloom this year. Hoping for better next spring. Blessings, Katherine!
I agree, Barbara, “The flesh defaults to what is easy.” We often want the easier path, with fewer obstacles and challenges. Scripture tells us we will face many trials and hardships if we follow Jesus. But, oh, the reward of eternal life with Him is worth it. Wishing you joy and blessings.
About your irises–sometimes they need to be transplanted. If we dig up the tubers and plant them in another location in late summer/early fall, it may help them to bloom again in the spring. They also don’t like their tubers to be covered with dirt or mulch, it helps if we remove any soil or organic material so the tubers are exposed to sunlight.
This message made me think of how my husband does a “weed walk” every morning. He looks for weeds and grass that have sprouted overnight. Those things attempt to take over the flower bed, but, my hubby digs out those awful intruders so the flowers will continue to grow and enhance the beauty of the garden. 🙂 Just like weeds in the flower bed, we need to be on the lookout for things that might disrupt our time with God. I’m thankful we can get rid of the weeds in the dirt and weeds in our lives. Have a blessed day! 🙂
Your words share wisdom for our yards and garden as well as for our spiritual journey. Thank you, Melissa. I hope your back is better and your week is filled with blessings.
Wise words, Katherine. We must weed in all parts of our lives.
Yes, those weeds creep up everywhere and we’re faced with weeds popping up in our lives on a daily basis. Thank you, Diana.
Katherine, yes the weeds have taken over at my house during the month of June. Slowly, I’ve been working to pull the weeds, to remove the competition for the nutrients and water that my flowers need. Tons of work and it takes commitment and perseverance. The same is true with our daily lives, it takes intentional commitment and perseverance to rid the weeds (sin), so that the flowers can bloom and grow (witness). Great article!
Laura, I knew you’d see into my message immediately–farm and garden girl that you are. I’m persevering in taking back my flower bed from the onslaught of the weeds. I hope your battle goes well, too. Hands in the dirt is such great therapy. Happy weeding and growing, my friend.
Oh ouch! That was an appropriate and timely analogy. Thank you.
Thank you, Sylvia. My back and knees feel the “ouch,” too. Peace and blessings.
I’ve been amazed by the growth of weeds in my flower bed during this unusual rainy season. But like the saying “along with the rainbow comes the thunder and lightning,” along with the flowers comes the weeds. Great reminder of the work we must do to keep our spiritual garden weeded!
Thank you for your kind encouragement, Candyce. We’re blessed with the rain in this hot season. We’ll take the gift! Wishing you a joyful week.
Those weeds sure do take over in gardens and in our lives! This was a great analogy and insights about controlling both kinds of weeds! Your irises show your great care in the garden, as do your books, your care in God’s Word! Thank you Katherine.
Thank you, Kathy. Your encouragement sends sunshine and joy my way today. Wishing you blessings. I’m really looking forward to your upcoming book!