Devotionals for the Heart: Gardening can teach us about our heart's health

What’s the Condition of Your Heart?
A devotional by Peg Arnold

“A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it. But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold.” When He had said these things He cried, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”—Luke 8:5-8 (NKJV)

As the Autumn season arrives, I begin to prepare my gardens for winter. While doing this, I find the soil dry and hard in some places, and thorny weeds and rocks in other areas, reminding me of the above parable (Luke 8:5-8).

When I read this story in the past, I knew Jesus Christ was describing the conditions of the hearts of those who had never heard the gospel message. But recently, I have become more aware that if I am not careful, I can be guilty of each of these heart conditions Jesus describes. I wonder if you have struggled with some of these challenges as well.

Let’s examine this further …

First, there is the Hard Path (Hardened Heart) we read about in Luke 8:5.

We don’t want to admit to being susceptible to a hardened heart like the seed sown along the beaten path and then eaten by the birds. These hearts can become cynical by challenging situations with no end or solution. Do we fall into the trap of praying for wisdom and discernment in words yet allow those scavengers of discouragement and insecurity to consume any seeds of hope? Romans 5:3-5 reminds us that times of suffering have a purpose in our lives.

Romans 5:3-5 (NIV) says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

Next, there is the Rocky Soil (Shallow Heart) that we read about in Luke 8:6.

Are we guilty of the shallow heart where the seed falls on the rocky ground, and sprouts immediately but quickly blow away with storms? The rocks of worry, doubt, and fear can cause us to stumble and even attack fragile faith. They crowd out Christ's still, small voice, allowing stress and anxiety to take over our souls. Paul reminds us to turn our concerns to Him in prayer and thanksgiving and receive His peace.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV) says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Then, there is Thorny Soil (Distracted Heart), which we read about in Luke 8:7.

Do thorns distract you? Do you begin the morning with your devotions and feel a sense of renewal and refreshment, but instead of taking the Lord with you through the day, you check it off your list as a completed task? When we do this, we are vulnerable to jumping into the demands of our day, completely choking out the growth and assurance that inspired us earlier. Instead, keep the promises of the Lord in your heart so earthly temptations do not crowd them out. Philippians 4:8 is one of my favorites.

Philippians 4:8 (NKJV) says, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.”

Finally, we read about the Fertile Soil (Receiving Heart) in Luke 8:8.

A fertile heart allows us to grow and flourish in our faith. Preparing the soil of our hearts so that the roots of faith grow deep helps us to withstand life's storms and find joy in the moments. It requires intentionality, prayer, and the fertilization of God’s word. Committing this time harvests His strength and peace necessary to survive the worries, distractions, and challenges. Paul expresses this process in his letter to the Hebrews.

Hebrews 12:11 (NIV) says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

The same commitment is required of my garden. To produce an abundant harvest, I must invest time and energy in seeding, weeding, fertilizing, watering, and monitoring pests throughout the season, including preparing it for the winter.

I continue to work in my garden, tossing out the rocks and digging deep to pull the thorny weeds and their destructive root systems. As I do this, I pray that I will take the time to do this in my heart. How about you?

In closing, I’d like for you to ponder this question: What is the condition of your heart?

Let’s Pray:

Dear Lord,

We ask for your guidance to help us identify the areas of our hearts and spirits that we have ignored. Grant us the discernment and wisdom to help determine if there are rocks to remove, thorns to dig out, or places that need watering with Your word. We desire to cultivate a nurturing and receiving heart that will flourish and produce the Fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives. In Jesus’s Name, I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection: “The Garden” by Kari Jobe. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Peg Arnold, Speaker/Author/Teacher is a Drama Queen for Jesus. 

Her vibrant, interactive, and soul-stirring messages encourage all to embrace their God-given value. As a mom, wife, nana, mentor, with a master’s in counseling, she connects on a personal basis by sharing her joys and challenges of many life experiences through her dramas, messages, and witness. Whether talking with a friend over coffee or addressing hundreds of people at a conference, her passion for equipping women is contagious.

She has published devotions on YouVersion and in the Upper Room. In addition, she has contributed to two Chicken Soup for the Soul books, three anthologies, numerous articles, and blogs. Her devotional, Devotions for the Distracted Heart, received a 2022 OASIS award.

Peg desires everyone to know that their story is important and has a purpose. She grew up in Michigan and raised her family in Maryland. Later in life, Peg and her husband relocated close to their family in Colorado.

~*~
Connect with Peg:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arnoldpeg/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pegarnoldwow
Website: https://pegarnold.org/ Get some freebies when you visit!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC51V_iWr0RfGAQvQnWVXEoA
Devotions for the Distracted Heart blog: https://pegarnold.wordpress.com/
YouVersion: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/22261-devotions-for-the-distracted-heart
Holiday YouVersion: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/28680-holiday-devotions-for-the-distracted-heart
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/wonderofwomen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/peg-arnold-wow

Devotionals for the Heart: A Pearl

The Pearl of Great Value
A devotional by Sharon Musgrove

There have been opportunities over the years to “dress for the occasion.”

Despite my preference for the Pacific Northwest’s casual wear, certain occasions call for dressing up. Some events say, “show me the value of this time.” A wedding is a prime example.

On my wedding day, great care went into dressing for the occasion. Every detail, from flowers and gown, to the jewelry worn, had been thoughtfully and painstakingly selected to be elegant and classic. Pearls were that final touch: A strand of pearls around my neck and single studs at my ears.

Pearls elevate any attire. Their simple elegance adds class and sophistication without being flashy or attention seeking. They are inherently feminine and soft. The beauty in a pearl is an asset to any occasion.

The Bible shares two parables about hidden treasure and a pearl. They are subtitled in the English Standard Version, “The Parable of the Hidden Treasure” and “The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value.” 

Jesus tells these stories explaining that the Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure (Matthew 13:44) and the Kingdom of Heaven is like a pearl merchant who finds a pearl of great value (Matthew 13:45). It’s confusing that the Kingdom would be like both the treasure and the merchant valuing the treasure. How does that work?

In the parable of the hidden treasure, Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” (Matthew 13:44 ESV)

And in the parable of the Pearl he states, "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:45 ESV)

Both parables say that the value of the treasure found is so great that the one finding it would sacrifice everything. That’s some valuable pearl! Maybe that is the point and stopping there is sufficient, but my question of the two Kingdom likenesses remains. Could there be more treasure hidden in these verses? 

I’m repeatedly drawn to verse 45 … “the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant”… a person. 

This parable tells of the value of a person above all else! All the years of Sunday school lessons would lead this pupil to raise her hand and exclaim, “Jesus! The answer to the question is Jesus!” Yes, he is an excellent answer! Jesus. He is both man and treasure! 

When we find Jesus, we want to change our lifestyle. We willingly give up our wants and desires. We sacrifice our life for Him. That looks very much like what Matthew 13:44 is saying.

Plugging the answer “Jesus” into Matthew 13:45, Jesus as the merchant, something different happens. It is Jesus who sacrifices everything to obtain the treasure! Then what … or dare I ask … who is the treasure? Who is the pearl?

My heart races and eyes grow wide. Me! You! Us! We are the pearl of great value to the merchant, Jesus, who sought and sacrificed! 

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV)

Do we know our great value?

Pearls are unique in their value. They are a natural gem that cannot be improved upon by man’s efforts. They take years to form. Yet this oddly created treasure brings class and elegance to its owner.

Jesus says I’m a treasure of highest value. More often I don’t feel like it. But I know that the transformative power of Jesus Christ makes me valuable. Because of that, He is my treasure.

My mind returns to those pearls I donned on my wedding day. Perhaps it’s the characteristics of humility and honesty that are befitting a bride.

I wear those pearls often these days. It’s as if everyday says, “Today is Holy, dress accordingly.” Every day is an opportunity to don the love of Christ. 

When I wear the pearls, I’m reminded of Jesus’ life sacrifice for me. 

I want to be that pearl of great value.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sharon Musgrove is a self-proclaimed sociologist. The opportunities opened to her, over the years, have led her on a fascinating journey observing human behavior.

She has a diverse background in business, fitness and health industries. This background led her to a unique position writing curriculum and teaching for two private, Christ-based, residential recovery programs. Both recovery programs served women primarily from the homeless community.

Sharon has traveled multiple times to Kenya, serving on medical teams and teaching in the rural Maasai communities. She's been privileged to participate in Leadership camps for maturing young women. These annual camps have a mission of encouraging and empowering the impoverished, underprivileged, and often abused young Maasai girls.

Easily identifying personally with the brokenness of the women she's served, Sharon now sees all people as needing more encouragement regardless of cultural or socioeconomic status. Within these ministries, Sharon has witnessed the transformative power of loving words spoken to the broken-hearted. Sharing God’s love and witnessing its transformative power has become her passion.

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel, and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, make their home in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. They have two grown children. Currently, Sharon is writing her first Christian historical fiction novel utilizing her study, experience, and understanding of self-destructive behaviors.