This Is Worship

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Psalm 118:15

The sound of joyful singing and victory (worship) is heard
in the tents of righteous people.
The right hand of Yahweh displays strength. NOG

I was outside in my garden recently, looking around at my garden beds. At first, I began by noticing plants that were dead and needed to be removed. Other plants that were barely alive that I needed to pull. My thoughts also started focusing on the plants that didn’t produce in the way I wanted them to produce. Even some of the seeds failed to germinate. The miserably hot weather we've had this year had damaged plants and prevented me from relaxing in my garden.

Thankfully, I paused my negativity, took a seat in my garden, and noticed the breeze that was blowing today through my zinnias and dahlias, allowing them to sway in their own dance. My flowers were beautiful, and I thanked God that I was able to grow them. It was a good weather day, bright and sunny without oppressive humidity. I took time to thank God for allowing me to garden and grow beautiful things. It was time to worship God instead of filling my mind with regret, doubt, and disappointment.

As I worshiped, I said prayers of thankfulness and hummed hymns while working in the garden. My mood and thoughts shifted from what I didn’t accomplish in my garden to all the garden meals shared within my home. In addition to the times I had with grandkids running around the garden and picking produce to take home. As well as the ability to share not only produce but also having the chance to show others how to prepare and preserve garden food.

Worship, even in its simplest forms, can drive out all malicious thoughts that only damage our souls. This season of summer growing may be coming to an end in my region, but I can still faithfully worship God as I bring my summer garden to a close. In my worship time, I can thank God for what has been and worship God for the opportunities to grow in my next season. In this season, may you find peace as your garden slows down, remembering the fruitfulness of each moment and worshiping God in thankfulness and gratitude.

Remember:

Shifting focus from disappointment to gratitude in the garden.
Worshiping God can transform gardening experiences and moods.
End-of-season gardening is a time for reflection and thankfulness.

Garden Journal Prompts:

Are there more specific stories or moments where faith impacted your gardening journey?
How can I incorporate worship or prayer more intentionally while gardening?
What encouragement do you have for gardeners facing ongoing challenges or disappointments?

Kimberly Bloom

A Hand of Tranquility and a Harvest Lifestyle