Devotionals

---

Seeds
Scripture: Mark 4:31-32

Devotion:
A humble seed contains an amazing miracle. Within a tiny seed lie all the potential possibilities placed there and only seen by God our Father. Only God can take a seed from an apple and turn it into a tree. Yet within God’s wisdom there is a season of waiting. The season of waiting produces growth, as it gives the plant time to develop roots deep into the earth, providing nutrients and stability. This stability is a primary factor in helping plants weather storms and endure hardship. In order for the stem to grow above ground, there must be slow development in the plant underneath, in private unseen areas. Shallow roots lead to stunted growth and less defense against attacks from wind and disease.

The worst part of dealing with a chronic illness is daily living with abnormal circumstances that seem to direct your life. Friends and family understand that you are sick, but do not fully understand how sickness invades every aspect of your daily activities, suddenly evolving simple tasks into monumental struggles. Those automatic, insignificant things, such as walking or breathing, begin to hold primary importance and focus. Misunderstandings about your illness can lead to isolation, loneliness and depression.

As we face our inward struggles of illness and the unknown, it may look from the outside as if nothing is happening. We may feel alone and misunderstood as silence comes to unanswered questions. Yet, like the seed, this is an opportunity for spiritual growth. As with the growth of the seed, our spiritual growth is not an instantaneous event, but a continuous process. Struggles cause us to slowly dig deep, to fully understand why we believe what we believe. We can either choose to blame and prevent healing or to endure hardship and receive strength. What path we take will determine our journey and destination. If we rely on God and develop strong faith in him, He can transform our lives into mighty testimonies. Looking back to see where God’s hand rescued or gave insight to overcome a situation can help others.

Prayer: God, I know you have a plan for my life. Help me to strengthen my faith and trust in you so I can see you in all things and not just my illness. Amen.

It is easy for a chronic illness to take over your life. What are ways you can dig deeper to strengthen your faith at this time?

---

PLEASE ENCOURAGE AUTHOR BELOW LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE