“Growing slow is a school of patience in which we are nurtured into spiritual maturity. Growing Slow is a daily choice to see where God is already working and then the conscious decision to join him there.”- Jennifer Dukes Lee
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”- 2 Peter 3:18 (NIV)
In Chapter 3 (“We Are Also Fields”) of Growing Slow, Jennifer Dukes Lee counsels us not to overlook the most important growth of all. That growth? The blooming inside us as God tends to our souls.
Certainly, as farmers we plant seed in people and places. But, we must remember that we’re also fields. Dirt in the hands of God. And God breathes life and love into each of us. As He grows us into servants. Not superstars.
However, Jennifer astutely observes, that conscious decision to join God where He’s already working is heavy and hard. Above all, the rain won’t let up for a second. Yet, at that point, Jennifer exhorts:
” . . . instead of running from the rain, you need to step right out in it, letting it wash your eyes so you aren’t blind to the beauty that’s still there. And it is. It’s still here.”
Thus, the author wryly notes, you can’t chart Growing Slow on a spreadsheet. Hence, what rewards exist for your unseen and internal milestones? As Jennifer states, it’s probably less like a framed certificate and more like the apostle Paul’s encouragement:
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”- Philippians 3:14 (NIV)
In conclusion, Jennifer compares our spiritual growth to her husband Scott planting millions of seeds, then waiting for tiny shoots of green:
“Day to day, the growth is nearly imperceptible. But it happens. Growth happens, slowly, until one day you realize that you have to tip your chin to see the tops of the corn tassels. You and I aren’t corn plants, of course, but we are grown slowly too. Sometimes the day-to-day growth is imperceptible, but I have to believe it’s happening.”
Today’s question: What Scriptures support you in the school of patience? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The lay of the land – God knows”
