Be Part of His Work

Whoever boasts, should boast in the Lord. // 1 Corinthians 1:31

Soft white lights twinkled like fireflies under the vines of the deep purple clematis. Softball-sized hydrangeas bobbed in the breezy twilight, and the deep pink roses fought the falling shadows. A last white butterfly made its way through the layers of textures and colors, and the flowers seemed to nod “good night” as it sleepily fluttered home down the cobbled pathway.

I stood with pride and took it all in before nodding my head in agreement with myself: it was perfect. After years of researching and planning, planting and tending I had created a gorgeous cottage garden in a nook in my yard.

It wasn't until much, much later that I had the inspiration to credit God for His part in it. Every color, detail, variance, every drop of beauty and grace in that space was present because He had first created it. And then the Lord had the generosity to bestow upon my highfalutin self the creativity and work ethic to beautifully arrange the work of His Hands. He had established my ability and circumstances and then allowed me to be a part of His work.

But unlike the good and faithful servants in today’s Gospel reading, I did not immediately turn back to the Lord and give it all to Him. I tried to keep all the glory for myself. Thankfully He did not throw me out into the darkness (Matthew 25:30), but He gave me the time and Holy Spirit promptings to realize my error.

Is there something in your life that you have not used humbly, wisely, and for the Lord’s honor and glory? If yes, course-correct today by talking to God about it with gratitude and repentance.

He allowed me to be a part of His work. // Bonnie EngstromClick to tweet

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