Flourishing

The word flourish evokes images of growth, renewal, and thriving, strongly associated with the spring season. Springtime when nature truly flourishes, with plants blossoming, trees re-leafing, and animals becoming active again in countries where changes occur.

God wants us to flourish and thrive. He wants us to produce fruit that will last into eternity—not just shriveled grapes, but fresh, tasty, abundant fruit (John 15)! The good news is that He provides us with everything we need, and much more, to produce good fruit through His Word.

Psalm 92: 13-15 reminds us that “Those who are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.” So, you are apart of this adventure at whatever stage you are at today!

In John 15:5 Jesus states us that “I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing.” He gives us spiritual nutrients through His Word and the Holy Spirit working in us so that we can produce much fruit.

In the parable of the talents, Mathew 25:14-30 - Jesus teaches us that everyone is to maximize the gifts they have been given contributing to the nourishment for the Kingdom of God. Success is a product of our work in God’s strength. He has given us a mission to accomplish in the here and now! He gives us everything we need to do what he has called us to do. In this story “each man was given according to his ability”. We work for the Master, not our own selfish purposes. The Bible reminds us that we shall be held accountable in accordance of what we do or say. We are co-laborers with Christ, not independent but dependent on Him which encourages us to flourish. During the times when we fall we have an open door to call on Him for help!

Pray your response to the Lord personally, meaningfully and genuinely.

Reflect: What part resonates with you and why?