TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Read: Mark 4:26-29
Listen: Mark 4
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Jesus tells another parable—the parable of a man who spreads seed and notices it growing “all by itself.” Anyone who gardens can relate to the mysterious ways plants grow. Although care for plants is the best way to maximize growth, sometimes we’re surprised by the ability of plants to just grow “all by themselves.” This happens with us too. Sometimes growth happens and we can’t explain it. This is the divine element of growth.
The man in the story has a job, and God has a job. The man plants and harvests but God is responsible for growth. This is true in our lives and relationships as well. If we desire to live a fruitful life, we should remember that we have a job and God has a job.
What God does with our obedience isn’t up to us. We teach and model faith to our kids, but choosing him and growing in their faith is between them and God. Our job is to forgive those who hurt us, but it’s God’s job to bring conviction. We speak the truth to our brothers and sisters, but it’s up to God as to what he does with the truth we share. There is a human element, and there is a divine element. We listen to the Word and respond in faithfulness. The results belong to God. Watch this video clip as Pastor Aaron Buer talks about how God is at work around us, even when we don’t see it or we’re too tired to participate.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
In Philippians 1:6, Paul recognizes that God is responsible for growth. Write Philippians 1:6 in your journal under Chair Notes on page 41. Take some time to think about this. What do you specifically need to give to God today?
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
