Saturday, February 10, 2024
As we wrap up our series, The Power to Change, we’ve spent this last week exploring the idea of being 1% better today.
In a world that values quick fixes, patience—especially patience for big changes that take time—is in short supply. We are tempted to give up like the man from the parable below, who wants to cut down the “barren fig tree.”
Luke 13:6-9
6 Then Jesus told this story: “A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed. 7 Finally, he said to his gardener, ‘I’ve waited three years, and there hasn’t been a single fig! Cut it down. It’s just taking up space in the garden.’
8 The gardener answered, ‘Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I’ll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. 9 If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.’”
Today, I invite you to carve out a few quiet moments to reflect and journal on the areas in your life that could benefit from attention, nourishment, and time. Reread the verses that really spoke to you this week such as Galatians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 4:8. Then look back on any notes you may have captured over the past few days and reflect on the next steps you took this week.
Prayer:
Father, you are so loving and patient with me as I grow. Forgive me as I get frustrated and want to throw in the towel on my lack of progress. Help me walk in step with the Holy Spirit, who produces the fruit of patience in me. May I do all things for your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
2 Peter 1:3
By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.
Today’s post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of LivingItOut.