A Three-Day Devotional
By Anita Wamble
Day 1: What Is Growing in Your Garden?
Last year, I decided to plant roses in the back portion of my yard. Before I could plant them, I had to remove the grass and weeds that had taken over the area.
I used a small pitchfork and a hoe to loosen the weeds so I could pull them out by hand. I worked two hours a day for five days. My husband came out to help, and eventually we had to hire someone to finish the job.
Those weeds did not leave easily!
The biggest problem was beneath the surface. The weeds had mature, well-established roots. My roses were new and needed time to take root in their new environment. If I left the weeds in place, they would compete for the water, nutrients, and space my roses needed to flourish.
Pulling off the tops of the weeds might have made the area look better, but it wouldn’t have solved the problem. I had to deal with the roots.
In Matthew 13, Jesus tells a parable about an enemy planting weeds in a field where good seed had been sown. That picture makes me think about the harmful words that find their way into our hearts and minds.
“You’re not good enough.”
“You can’t do anything right.”
“You will never make it.”
Sometimes, those words were spoken years ago, but they are still influencing our decisions today. We smile, go to work, attend church, and carry out our responsibilities while those weeds grow beneath the surface.
Before we can address them, we must recognize them. What words come to mind when you consider trying something new? Whose criticism do you hear when you look in the mirror? What have you accepted about yourself that doesn’t align with God’s truth?
We cannot uproot what we refuse to acknowledge. Ask God to show you what is growing in your garden. His truth gives us the courage to face what hurts and begin tending those places.
Challenge:
Write down one hurtful statement that still influences how you see yourself. Consider how it has affected your choices. Bring it honestly to God and ask Him to help you recognize the truth.
Prayer:
Lord, search my heart and show me the weeds that have taken root. Help me recognize the words I have accepted that do not agree with Your truth. Give me courage to face the hurt beneath the surface. Remind me that I am wonderfully made and deeply loved by You. Begin Your renewing work in me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Scripture References: Matthew 13:24–28; Psalm 139:14, 23–24.
© Anita Wamble. All rights reserved.
