Grow Where Planted

29-06-2023 | Empowerment | GraceStation Press

Often, we look for growth in areas where we are not planted or deeply rooted. Yet in these unfertile grounds we experience growth or at times even blossom, albeit temporarily. 

Unbeknown to us, shallow grounds do produce yields. These yields are often weak and temporal, easily shattered by the merest of events. Alas, these yields are beautiful counterfeits that divert and deceive. 

Like most, I am often swayed by the stories and experiences of those around me. I tend to want to emulate their steps, believing this is the magic formula for growth. 

Yet, I am often disappointed with the fleeting results yielded.  

Like plants that die from over and under-watering, I notice there is a fine balance to growing and blossoming.  

I am required to be in a place where my mind, body and soul are fed with the much-needed nutrients needed to be deeply rooted for growth. This inevitably means during seasons of drought; I do not wither away. Yes, I may be weakened, shaken and appear dishevelled but my roots run deep ensuring I have the stamina needed to weather the storm, and eventually blossom.  

And oh, when I do blossom, what a sight it is! Like glimpsing a single vibrant red rose amid dry patched grey land, I attract the attention of all in my vicinity. 

So, since I grow where I am fed, I begin to consider  

What is my growth feed?       The Word. 

Does this feed work for all?    Yes, it does.  

Can it become stale?             No, Never, ever, ever! 

Can it be spiced up?              Yes, through journaling, dancing, confessions,  

                                               painting, location change, memorising scriptures etc.  

Phew! That’s a relief.   

Wait a minute! If this magic growth feed works, why do some people experience fleeting and counterfeit growth?  

Well, there are lots of words out there and the life-changing Word referenced is scripture and God-given. We are therefore required to dwell and know the Word for ourselves to prevent us from falling prey to false teaching which hinders growth.  

Oh, ok, thanks! 

What do you mean by planted?  

Well, planted here is a place you call home, a place attended regularly, where you are fed and commune with other lovers of the Word. A place of communal growth where deeper insight is gained through sharing and studying the Word.  

To grow where planted, equates to finding a place where a variety of roots become deeply intertwined via their feed i.e., the Word.  

A place of permanent bloom springing forth, a place where we carry each other and prevail over the storms. I grow where planted in the Word.