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The Truth about my Black Thumb

I was thinking this morning about plants. I've never been successful at sustaining plants, and the reason why is pretty embarrassing. I rarely read the directions. In fact, sometimes I rip off the little piece of cardboard with the directions on it because it interferes with the aesthetic of the plant.

This realization became an instant parallel with how I live. Too often I treat God's Word like I treat the instructions for plants, naively coasting through without reminding myself of what I can do in order to thrive. Like the plant distributors, my Father has provided everything I need (wisdom, encouragement, comfort, hope) in writing for me to dwell on as often as possible. What a generous gift. Yet, I tend to act as if these words are optional.

The parallels continue. Like taking care of plants, we have to be proactive in nurturing our souls. If we wait to water or relocate a plant until there are signs of decay, there's a good chance that some permanent damage has occurred already. Leaves may have fallen and size may be stunted. Likewise, if we wait until we make blunders or stumble into a crisis to open God's Word, there's a high probability that we've created some permanent damage that will have consequences in our relationships, finances or some other treasured area. We thrive when we are in the habit of drinking in God's Word daily.

My favorite parallel with the botanical world is actually how we are different from plants, though. As anyone with a black thumb knows, plants can reach a point of no return. They can die, becoming withered and useless. Thanks be to God, we are never too far gone. Our sins may have permanent consequences, yes, but our eternal lives can be spared. He is always a whisper away, ready to redeem the wilted parts of us and utilize us for good in His story.

I may head to Home Depot and grab a little plant I can place in the window over my kitchen sink to remind me of this very truth. Even when I accidentally kill it, I will be encouraged and remember that I am never beyond repair.

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