Living as Plants

The other day I had a thought, it’s not necessarily a novel concept, but I have since been itching to write about it. Over the summer I had the opportunity to join a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Virtual Camp, where I got to speak to a group of Elementary School kids about my journey to overcoming imposter syndrome. It was especially encouraging to me seeing young brown girls because I once wished I knew some of the things I know now growing up! It brings me joy to see that they can start to have clarity about themselves even at such a young age and can learn to isolate the voices/words of others from the truth that they know about themselves (Thankful to Stephanny Epsy for the invitation).

At some point during the discussion, I mentioned how I see myself as a plant and thought to myself, that is a word!

I personally believe that we all should see ourselves as plants, maybe then we would take special care how we choose to live.

The Word of God (Bible) talks a lot about us being planted in the right environment. It is a given that the seasons of life will change. Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us that there is a time for every activity under heaven, a time to plant and a time to harvest. Yet, I believe that God wants us to have abundant life AND thrive in every season of our lives.

This makes me think that if we understood this concept better we would be more intentional about the kinds of places/spaces we put ourselves in. We would be more conscious of the people, words and ideas we feed our minds and spirits.

Psalms 1 says that those who do not follow the advice of the ungodly or stand around with sinners, but choose to delight in AND meditate on the law and word of God day and night are “like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do” (Psalms 1: 1-3).

“The Word of God is seed that ensures a supernatural harvest.” – Keith A. Craft

Sometimes plants need to be transplanted into different environments and/or need additives to nourish them. A healthy thriving and growing plant is well nourished in that it is receiving adequate amounts of water, nutrients and sunlight and is free from weeds and diseases. Also it is in a safe place where it is not being destroyed by the elements, insects or animals.

“But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted to the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green”

Psalm 92: 12-14

Only planting ourselves in Jesus Christ can give us health and vitality! He alone can protect us and challenge us to change, grow and be transformed! In Christ we will be careful to attend to the varied needs we have in various seasons of life. In Him we will stay focused and not be swept away by the tides of life. In Him we can overcome the temptations, distractions and deterrents of life!

“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and He prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.”

John 15: 1-2

We want to plant ourselves in Jesus and let God have His way in our lives and bring us to His desired end. The storms of life are meant to distract us and cause us to doubt. It comes to shake our faith, but we need to press on! We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Phil 4:13)! And in doing this we start to see the fruits of the Holy Spirit being revealed in us to the Glory of His Holy Name! Amen!

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit“

Jeremiah 17: 7-8

For the godly, the fruits of our lives includes those that reflect the presence of the Holy Spirit – Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness, Faithfulness & Self Control (Galatians 5: 22-23). This is how we can assess how we are doing as the seasons unfold.

Today I pray that we are filled with godly understanding and wisdom as we need it. I pray that we start to see the value of living planted in the right environment and being intentional about being “fed” well. I pray for strength. I pray for clarity and focus. I pray for comfort from our Great Comforter! I pray that our steps be aligned with God’s heart and that we receive the encouragement that we need. I pray that we are reminded of God’s love and faithfulness. I pray that we have an encounter with His Presence and Holy Spirit before the week ends! I pray Mighty God that our hearts be open and obedient to Your prompts and that we continue to do the work that we need to so that we can start/continue to develop the fruits of the Holy Spirit. In the Mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.

My declaration: He has planted me and made me a noble and precious vine of the highest quality. I am tame in Christ, no longer a wild vine (Jeremiah 2:21) – Amen!

With love,

Uju

Fruits photo by Toa H. Cover photo by Sebastien N.