“Be not deceived, God is not mocked; for whatsoever a man sows, that he shall also reap. Gal 6:7

When you plant a seed in a garden, it takes care, patience and time for the fruit, vegetable, tree, plant or flower to grow. The roots must maintain proper moisture for nutrients to be absorbed. Too much water or sunlight can kill it, as well as extreme temperatures or weather patterns. While the sun provides Vitamin D which is essential for the growth process, the elements of the environment can either destroy, hinder or produce life.

We are also a product of our environment. From birth, we have been conditioned and influenced by our families, communities and our society. We may have grown up in a negative environment or developed negative habits along the way. Negative attitudes, habits or behavior is like a virus which is very hard to get rid of. However, we also have the ability to change. “Be transformed, by the renewing of the mind.” Rom 12:2

It takes time and effort and can also be very painful or scary to take a good look in the mirror and analyze yourself. It may not even be your own fault. Abuse, neglect and other painful experiences and memories can cause a blockage or magnify negative emotions. But once you decide to weed out the causes of the behavior and get to the root of the problem, you will eventually dismiss those negative behaviors and habits and begin to bloom and flourish. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It takes time just like a seed deeply buried in the soil. Growing and healing is like watering a garden. However, we should not exclude Christ in the process. “I can do all things in Christ which strengthens me.” Phil 4:13

Just like the seed that is planted, we are also motivators in our social circles. Let us be mindful of the words and actions that we sow into the lives of others. Let us walk with integrity and respect reflecting the love of Christ in our lives wherever we go. We have the capacity to produce a beautiful, luscious garden in our lives and in our environment. As Jesus stated, “I am the vine, ye are the branches, those who abide in me, abide much fruit, apart from me; you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 

Jesus is our source and the one we can rely on; not only when life fails, but at all times. Many times we forget God when there is no pain or suffering but let us not forget that we can do nothing without Him.

“For us the earth brings forth her bud, and as the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.” Isaiah 61:11