Jesus often compares the Kingdom of Heaven to plants growing and to harvests. To me, it's only natural that Paul used similar language when he said in 1 Corinthians 3.6, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God caused the growth."
A lot of our work is either sowing seeds of truth or watering what is already starting to grow, but God is in charge of the harvest. It's not up to us to dictate the where and when, but simply to observe and do the role we're called to at that moment. We have a few people who are asking good questions, who are fighting to advance toward God, but the steps they need to take, ultimately, are ones of faith. Pray that we can be patient as we encourage them to keep moving forward because God's word will do its job.
As Isaiah 55.10-11 says:
For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
And do not return there without watering the earth
And making it produce and sprout,
And providing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;
So will My word be which goes out of My mouth;
It will not return to Me empty,
Without accomplishing what I desire,
And without succeeding in the purpose for which I sent it.
These are the words that give us hope. May it encourage you as well as you sow seeds of truth in love and point those who are thirsty to the water of life.
Also pray for our church, that we would be better at loving one another. It's hardly ironic that this Sunday we'll be reading this from James 1: 19-22 :
You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; for a man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God. Therefore, ridding yourselves of all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves.
May we all strive to be love.
- Nikki