So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 1 Corinthians 3:7
Back in March, I wrote a devotional about my sad, scrawny little plant I just could not throw out. (See Barely Thriving). I’m pleased to announce the plant has grown a new, beautiful, dark green, healthy leaf! (It’s the one in the center.)
For the past few weeks, I have been watching it daily with anticipation. Every morning I’d curl up on my couch, hugging my coffee cup, and determine how much it had “grown” overnight. It started as a small “bump” and when I saw it I caught my breath in my throat. Could it be? After almost a year, a new leaf?
Yes! Within another few days, it was confirmed. Then the stalk began to get longer and longer. Soon, a tightly-wound leaf began to stretch from the tip of the stem and slowly unfurl. It only took a few days before the newly-opened light green leaf darkened as the sun shined on it, spurring the chlorophyll to flow.
If I can root (no pun intended) for a little leaf growing, how much more does God get excited to see growth in me? Understand that I mean spiritual growth, not my waistline and hips. I can almost envision Him smiling and encouraging me. It made me realize anew that any growth is celebrated. It means progress, no matter how slow.
That thought led to another. How impatient am I in watching for growth in others? Do I become frustrated with them, assuming they are on my timetable and are not putting out the effort they should in order to become more Christ-like? Do I scoff and judge their faith walk? Or do I celebrate whatever tiny revelation I detect in their thoughts or behavior?
If I can celebrate a new leaf growing on a scrawny plant, how much more should I acknowledge the work God is doing in those I know…and in me as well?
Where Did You Find God Today? 
I enjoyed this post. It is a reminder to thank God for every little step forward within myself and those I love, within whom I know God has great things in store. Be blessed!
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Thanks for taking the time to comment. I’m glad God touched your heart through my words and the lesson He showed me, too.
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Julie, this is a great post and I do remember when you wrote about this scraggly plant, but look at ‘er now! Wow! I think she’s in a happy surrounding and rewarding you with the vitality…and a the TLC you bring.
It’s amazing to me how God speaks to us individually…whispers, nudges, and then a giant step. I’ve had one of those the past couple of days. I noticed my blog site was getting attention from around the world and tuned back in to see what they were reading. (The first nudge). To my amazement, my blogs of several years ago were more encouraging, softer, helpful. I’d been working on a current post that just wasn’t coming together, and when I read it after the older ones, I realized I had become harsh and critical…just like the world around me. Hmm, (next jog in the mind and heart). I’m rewriting the harsh post and hopefully listening to your counsel, encouraging and acknowledging the small, forward steps God allows in our lives. Thank you!
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I had noticed it, too and had actually stopped reading them, but kept praying for you during this tough time with your and Dick’s health challenges. I’ve noticed a lot of faith based posts becoming angry and defensive due to all the liberal media stabs. It’s hard not to fall into Satan’s trap.
And by the way…yet another leaf is forming this week on my plant. I feel like a proud momma.
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