Devotional: The Brown Thumb

Intro:
The curse of the “brown thumb” has invaded my home. From plants and flowers to trees and the lawn … I leave carnage in my wake. Compare a picture of my house when I bought vs. now and it is obvious that I have not done a great job. Green and lush has been replaced with brown and spotty. My choices (and lack of skill) have contributed to the carnage.

Do you know someone with a brown thumb? How about a “brown soul”? Seems out there, doesn’t it? A brown soul? Sure, why not? How else do you describe those dry times with God? And what causes them? You see, spiritually I can be green and lush (full of life and purpose) or brown and spotty ….. and brown and spotty seems the norm sometimes.

If the world revolves around ME, if every decision is centered in my comfort, if I am always demanding my rights then I am dying as I live! If, however, the world revolves around God and others, if I am allowing the Spirit of God to direct me then I am living as I die! That is the reap what you sow principle.

Read: Galatians 6:7-10
7Don’t be deceived. God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8For he who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption. But he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. 9Let us not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in due season, if we don’t give up. 10So then, as we have opportunity, let’s do what is good toward all men, and especially toward those who are of the household of the faith.

Think:
The word “mocked” (v.7) means to “turn the nose up at, to sneer”. An “in your face” attitude. It is sinning and thinking God will not hold us accountable nor make us feel the effects of the sin. Remember, seed grows up later. Are you involved in any activities that you think God will overlook?

How gracious is God not to give us what we deserve nor let the seeds we plant destroy us. Think of some of the dumb things you have done and marvel that you have not received punishment equal to the offense. God is kind and worthy of our praise!

Flesh vs. Spirit. These represent life orientations. Who am I living to please? See Galatians 5:16-24 for a list of fruits of the “flesh” and fruits of the Spirit. Which looks like your life today?

Do:
What has God called you to do today?

Would you get on your knees and offer yourself to God right now?

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