John 12:20-36 The Life Of A Seed

When we plant gardens, we first prepare the soil, then carefully put the seeds into those beds, covering them like a child at night, and finally we wait expectantly for the sprouts to appear.  I don't think I have ever considered the fact that the outer shell has to actually decay to the point that moisture can enter and begin to break down the shell and begin the growth process.  The seed as we know it must effectively be destroyed to get the plants we so look forward to seeing.

"Jesus used the image of a seed to illustrate the great spiritual truth that there can be no glory without suffering, no fruitful life without death, no victory without surrender.  Of itself, a seed is weak and useless, but when it is planted, it 'dies' and becomes fruitful.  There is both beauty and bounty when a seed 'dies' and fulfills its purpose.  If a seed could talk, it would no doubt complain about being put into the cold, dark earth.  But the only way it can achieve its goal is by being planted," my commentary said.

"God's children are like seeds.  They are small and insignificant, but they have life in them, God's life.  However, that life can never e fulfilled unless we yield ourselves to God and permit Him to 'plant us'.  We must die to self so that we may live unto God ... surrendering to Christ."

Father, thank You for planting me.  Glorify Yourself through my life.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford