January and winter, I think it could be a gardener’s favorite and least favorite time of the year. The seed catalogs are eagerly awaited surprises in the mailbox, then drooled over with pen in hand as we dream of the coming season. Then, a longing for dirt under our finger nails grows to near desperate levels as we countdown the days and watch temperatures like a hawk. Spring seems to be so close, yet so far away as a longing for fresh growth increases.
My word for this year (2019) seems to be ‘growing’ – it’s fitting, given I was a plant science major in college. But this year it’s more than just growing plants, it’s growing a trusting faith and vulnerably surrendering to a process that I can’t always see. Growing children who are happy and maturing, growing a farm that started from a dream, growing relationships that are more valuable than gold. Growing a deep relationship with my Creator, rooted in love and trust. It’s embracing growth that happens little by little, in places often unseen.
As plants grow they are vulnerable to the elements, easily broken or bruised, and tender. I wonder how this might be reflective of our growth? Newness is always exciting, but it’s just that – new and tender. If a seedling is separated from its soil and transplanted into a larger container too soon, it becomes a set back. More fertilizer causes cells to grow too fast, resulting in weak branches. Too much water, and roots suffocate. Too much sunlight can burn tender leaves.
Good, quality growth takes time, patience, attention, and hopeful trust. The investment can be risky. What if I plant a seed or nurture a dream, and it fails to grow? What if I step way out of my comfort zone only to be met with nothing in return? Is growth worth being vulnerable? I believe it is. Without that risk, life is boring and flat – stagnant. When I think about growth, its full of life, wonder, and mystery.
God is a gardener. Within the first two chapters of God’s Word we’re told, “The LORD God planted a garden in Eden…” (Genesis 2:8) In John 15:1 Jesus tells us, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.” In that same chapter of John 15, Jesus goes on to tell us that we are to bear fruit. We are called to growth and cultivation. We are called to love one another; that sounds pretty vulnerable to me. Yet in that space of tender growth, we are called to a place where we can trust the Gardener. Entrusting ourselves into His capable hands and process.
Last week on the blog it was all about growing in 2019, and asked the question about where God might be growing you this year. Today – What does being vulnerable to growth look like for you right now? What step can you take? It doesn’t have to be this huge life changing decision, just a small step. Marathons are completed one step (or stride) at a time.
This list of scriptures on growth from Propel Women may inspire you in this season.
With Gratitude,
Amy

Lovely!!!!! *Dr. Marla Brady* *”Inspired by Possibilities-Driven by Purpose”* *MBConsulting – Career Direction Professional * *561-376-7348 – http://www.marlabrady.com *
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This is so good. I’ve had so many times where I didn’t understand this early growth stage, didn’t understand why God wasn’t moving more quickly–and this metaphor puts those times in perspective.
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It’s so easy to want that instant gratification in our growth! Keep at it, sister!
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Great encouragement!! Being vulnerable to growth for me means trying new things and being vulnerable to making mistakes or not pleasing everyone, or maybe even just not meeting my own expectations. Thanks for sharing!
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Yes! Trying new things definitely puts us in a vulnerable place sometimes.
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Thank you for this encouragement and reminder that vulnerability is necessary for growth but worth the risk. I’m wanting to grow in being more intentional about paying attention and sharing what God is doing, but it feels vulnerable to put myself out there in writing. And I have a few decisions ahead for another area of growth that is making me feel pretty vulnerable, too. So it feels like great timing for me to read this!
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When we are growing in Christ, it’s worth the vulnerability. Being intentional is key for every area of our life. Proud of you for taking those steps out! One at a time.
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I’m facing some major growth and vulnerability in both my personal and professional life this year. This post meant so much to me. Thank you
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You and me both!
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