Lean In: A Garden Story: God's Timing and Growth

For a while, the Lord had been bringing to my mind a vision of a garden with plots representing different areas of life: family, friends, work, health, ministry, and more.

After giving my life back to Christ in 2019, I remember having a vision of these plots — each one empty and barren. I had let weeds choke up the flowers and vegetables that once bloomed there, and all that could be done was to start over. So I did.

It felt like days of rain fell in one season, followed by a sun-scorching drought in the next. Slowly, as buds and blooms began to appear, seasons of intense pruning would follow. I would wonder, "God, when will I get to enjoy this garden again?"

But our Gardener is perfect in His timing and perfect in His plans. Watching this unfold has taught me more about God's timing and growth than any season before it.

Now, when I gaze over my garden plots, I'm amazed to see new buds in places that felt barren for so long. I'm in awe and wonder of the work of the Lord — our perfect Gardener with a perfect plan.

Questions to consider:

• What new buds are springing up in your garden?

• Do you trust the Gardener with His plan and timing?

• What "plots" in your life are you still waiting to see bloom?

• What season do you feel you're in right now — spring rains, summer drought, or fall pruning? How can you seek the Lord in that season?

Closing note:

As I write this, I can feel the ground beginning to shift again. The waiting isn't over, but I sense the Lord calling me out of rest and back toward ministry — not the same way I left it, but shaped by everything this season of surrender taught me. That's a story for next time. For now, be encouraged in your own season. The Lord goes before you, and we are standing in prayer with you. 🤍🙏🏼