In what ways can we "be cultivated and sown" in our daily lives? Verse in Focus “For behold, I am with you; I will turn toward you, and you will be tilled and sown.” Ezekiel 36:9 Cultivation: God’s Tender, Transforming Work • Conviction that breaks up hard ground (Jeremiah 4:3–4) • Scripture renewing the mind, uprooting old patterns (Romans 12:2) • Trials loosening the soil of self-reliance (James 1:2-4) • Fellowship pulling weeds through accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25) God drives the plow; our part is humble cooperation. Sowing: Planting Kingdom Seed • Luke 8:11 — “The seed is the word of God.” • James 1:21 — “Receive with meekness the implanted word.” • Galatians 6:8 — “Sow to the Spirit … reap eternal life.” Obedience drops good seed that guarantees a harvest (John 15:8). Inviting Cultivation Each Day • Begin each morning in Scripture, softening the soil. • Respond quickly in repentance when sin is exposed (1 John 1:9). • Embrace teaching, correction, and encouragement (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Keep the heart moist with worship and gratitude (Psalm 95:1-8). Sowing Well in Everyday Moments • Speak grace instead of complaint (Ephesians 4:29). • Invest time in family and church ahead of screens (Hebrews 3:13). • Give generously to needs (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Share the gospel when doors open (Mark 4:14). • Work diligently “as for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). Recognizing the Gardener’s Tools Scripture, sermons, circumstances, and loving rebukes are all instruments in God’s hands (Romans 8:28-29). Seeing them rightly fuels gratitude, not resentment. Harvest Promised Ezekiel 36 continues with multiplication and fruitfulness (vv. 10-11). Expect: • Deeper love for Christ (Philippians 3:8-10) • Growing holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16) • A witness that draws others to the Light (Matthew 5:16) As we welcome God’s cultivating work and faithfully sow kingdom seed, barren ground becomes a fruitful field to His glory. |
    |