What actions can we take to "dig around" and nurture spiritual growth? Setting the Scene “‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone again this year, until I dig around it and fertilize it.’ ” (Luke 13:8) Jesus’ parable of the barren fig tree paints a picture of patient, purposeful care. The vinedresser does not tear the tree out; he digs, loosens the soil, and adds nourishment so fruit can finally appear. Why Digging Matters • Digging loosens compacted earth—symbolic of breaking up spiritual hardness (Jeremiah 4:3). • It exposes hidden roots, allowing air and water to penetrate—paralleling honest self-examination before God (Psalm 139:23-24). • It prepares for fertilizer, mirroring receptivity to God’s Word and grace (James 1:21). Practical Ways to “Dig Around” Our Hearts • Repent quickly and specifically. Confession removes the crust of unconfessed sin that blocks growth (1 John 1:9). • Schedule unhurried time for Scripture. Slow, meditative reading lets truth reach deep roots (Psalm 1:2-3). • Fast periodically. Setting aside food sharpens spiritual attention and loosens worldly attachments (Matthew 6:17-18). • Invite accountability. Trusted believers can help uncover blind spots and encourage obedience (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Simplify life. Reducing cluttered commitments clears soil for the things that matter (Ephesians 5:15-16). Nurturing with Heaven’s Fertilizer • Word saturation: “Man shall not live on bread alone” (Matthew 4:4). Memorize and speak Scripture throughout the day. • Prayerful dependence: “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Conversational prayer keeps nutrients flowing. • Obedient action: Growth follows doing, not merely hearing (Luke 11:28). • Fellowship: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship” (Acts 2:42). God uses community to enrich soil. • Service and generosity: Pouring out refreshes both giver and receiver (Proverbs 11:25). • Trials embraced: Tested faith develops endurance, producing mature fruit (James 1:2-4). Expecting Fruit • God looks for visible evidence—love, joy, peace, and the other Spirit-borne fruit (Galatians 5:22-23). • He grants seasons of mercy: “One more year.” Today is that opportunity. • Faithful cultivation invites divine increase: “God…gives the growth” (1 Corinthians 3:7). Continual digging and deliberate nurturing cooperate with the Master Gardener, transforming barren branches into a fruitful witness for His glory. |
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