Today’s 333 Devotional: “Patiently Plant”

The Great Commission is all about patience.

When a seed is planted, there’s absolutely no way to hurry up the process. It takes time for the seed to germinate, to send down its roots and then to push its shoot above the ground. And while it may look like its ready for harvest, it takes time for the fruit to mature. If it is picked too soon, the whole process is ruined

When a farmer plants his crop he must patiently wait for the early rains, those that come at the beginning of the planting cycle, and the later rains, those that come toward the end to finish the cycle and bring in an abundant harvest.

This waiting, however, is difficult for most of us because we know that it won’t be long before the Lord returns, and the last thing we want to see is the lost, especially those who are our friends and family miss out on heaven.

The Apostle James feels our anxiety, but tells us to be patient anyway, and while we’re waiting, we need to strengthen our hearts because of the many trials and difficulties that will occur.

“Therefore, be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” (James 5:7-8)

In a kingdom parable, Jesus talks about a farmer that while he waited the enemy snuck in and sowed weeds. When the crop appeared they saw what had been done, but instead of pulling the weeds, which may have resulted in uprooting some of the crop, the farmer patiently waited until the end (Matthew 13:24-30).

Plant the good seed of God’s word and pray for the former and later rain of God’s Holy Spirit.

Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” (1 Corinthians 3:6)