I am not a great gardener, definitely the farthest thing from a plant whisperer. In fact, I used to jokingly state that I had brown thumbs and plants cried out to escape the deathtrap that was my home.
A few years ago I was given some houseplants. Determined to keep them alive, I set out change my methods and also enjoy the wonder of watching them grow. While my houseplants will likely never be award-winning, I do make sure to water them, move them to optimal sunlight, and pull dead leaves and blooms from their stems. It has become an act of loving care.
the question of larger pots
I’ve noticed recently that I have several plants in need of larger pots. The signs are all there, residue on the top of the soil, compaction of the dirt, foliage that is too thick and spilling over, yet I have been resisting repotting. As exciting as the growth is, repotting is messy, dirty, scary. What if I don’t do it right? What if my plant gets sick or worse, dies? If I want the growth to continue, I need to step beyond the fear and put the plants in larger vessels that will help facilitate further growth and flourishing.
god’s gardening
We are a lot like my houseplants. God lovingly places us in environments that cause us to grow. He removes those parts that are no longer life-giving to make way for more growth. Eventually, our growth requires change. Like plants that outgrow their containers, the signs are all there. We become uncomfortable and no longer fit where we once did, unable to absorb spiritual food that will produce more fruit. The Master Gardener knows we need to be moved into new areas. It’s not a clean process. He does not fear it but we often do.
being repotted is messy
The untangling and pruning of our rootbound hearts can feel insecure and painful. We can trust Him to plant us in hearty soil and tend to our vulnerabilities as we become firmly established. But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. (Jeremiah 17:7-8)
when you’ve outgrown where you’ve been
Today I leave you with the exhortation a spiritual mentor once shared with me. Grow where you’re planted, and do not fear replanting when you’ve outgrown where you’ve been.