At one time I thought that I would be able to lead everyone I came in contact with into a deep and meaningful relationship with Christ. I soon realized that this was not the case. Over time I have learned that I drive some people crazy, that I make some people uncomfortable, that some people absolutely do not like anything about me, and that I just plain wear some people out. I have learned that there are people that are not going to dig deep no matter what I say or do, no matter how many different ways I present the Gospel, no matter how I beg, plead, push, drag, or kick them in the direction of the cross…..simply because the soil of their heart is not ready.
Once I realized that I am not going to see every stage of growth in a person, I learned to enjoy the stage I am able to contribute to.
I finally understand that there are people God puts in my life so that I can till the soil of their heart- scraping through the hard surface created by years of weathering to the soft soil underneath.
There are people God puts in my life whose soil is tilled up (sadly, sometimes busted all to pieces) and I am allowed to prepare the soil for planting by creating a fertile environment for God’s love to grow- introducing them to the God who loves loves loves them.
Sometimes God allows me to plant seeds, sweet little nuggets of His truth and goodness.
Sometimes God sends me people who need watering-a good soul splashing of the enormity of this God that we serve.
Sometimes I get to be sunshine- giving warmth and light.
Sometimes I get to be Round-Up and help a person recognize and get rid of the sin-weeds that are holding them hostage.
And sometimes I get to harvest…to reap the tender blessing of what others have sown, watered, and nurtured….and celebrate with all of heaven as someone accepts Christ as Savior.
It's easy to get caught up in numbers..."How many people have you lead to Christ?"....but the truth is...we won't know this side of heaven how many lives we have impacted for the Kingdom. So, when I feel like a failure because someone "under my watch" did not accept Christ as Savior, I remind myself that maybe my part in that person's story was not to harvest, but to fertilize, plant, or water.
Hugs
K
