Central Truth

God, the master gardener, is producing the fruit of the Spirit in my life.  I can compare my gardening efforts to His work in me.

Reflections

I enjoy gardening.  In our early years of marriage, my husband affectionately referred to me as the “Plant Dehydrator.” I’ve learned from my mistakes through the years. I see some similarities between my attempts at gardening and the Holy Spirit’s perfect work in me producing His fruit of the Spirit.

First, the act of pruning is an important part of gardening and spiritual growth. As I lop off its branches with my shears, the shrub may feel like it is being destroyed. However, pruning makes the bush grow full, balanced, and strong.  Pruning can be compared to discipline.  “All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” (Hebrews 12:11)  God is pruning my life, cutting away the busyness, perfectionism, and people pleasing.

Yet even a pruned, healthy plant can be destroyed by an onslaught of insects.  In a similar way, sin can destroy my life.  Every summer my marigolds are attacked by tiny mites. If I spray the marigolds consistently and thoroughly with insecticide, the mites are held at bay.  But if I forget to spray, the dark green leaves turn gray, and the plants begin to die. Oh, that I would be thorough and persistent in waging war against sin in my life!  “Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:24)

Finally, as a gardener I know that having a successful harvest depends on God. He sends the sunshine and rain in His timing and control.  In a mysterious and miraculous way He causes growth, flowering, and fruit.  “For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13)  I love picking a ripe tomato from our garden or cutting a bouquet of colorful zinnias.  How God must delight in seeing the fruit of the Spirit in my life!  I must trust Him to work in me.      

Discussion Questions

1. Can you think of a time when God was pruning you?
2. How did His pruning make you more fruitful?
3. Is there sin that needs "insecticide" in your life?
4. Can you think of times of sunshine and rain in your life? How were God's purposes accomplished? Where do you see God producing the fruit of the Spirit in you?