Just a quick garden update: I have been researching, and yes, using ChatGpt to aid me in maintaining my garden beds and veggies. This is my first time gardening and I was a bit intimidated by the process.

I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. 1 Corinthians 3: 6-7

I understand that this scripture primarily reminds believers that we are not alone in the work of the Kingdom. Moreover, no one is more superior than the others. Some are called to plant the Word, others to water through discipling, and all of us are called to remain humble because it is God who brings the growth, the success, and the results. Any fruit that comes is by His power alone.

But as I read this scripture, it also helps me to understand that in my gardening venture—and as I plant and water—that it is God that breathes life upon my little garden beds of veggies and herbs.

I’m deeply grateful for the growth that God has brought to my garden beds. I am also grateful for His careful watch over them during this Midwestern cold. Seeing the garlic shoots, thyme, arugula, kale, and more sprout up just before the cold settled in is both satisfying and a relief. 

The only thing I wished I would have understood or did better is structuring the space of the seeds because I have to continually thin the veggies as they grow. This ensures they won’t be bunched up and compete for sunlight or space.

And if you are wondering about the cold, I planted veggies and herbs that can endure the winter season with a little extra support such as frost covers when temps drop too low. And the last time I peeked in on them, those little baby sprouts were doing well. Today, while it is a bit warmer than the previous days, I am going to check them again to see how they are holding up. And I am looking forward to when they are much bigger and fully ready to harvest. 

Reflection:

How does remembering that God gives the increase change the way you view your efforts—both spiritually and practically?