Lessons from the Lilies
I pray you are having a wonderful start to 2014! How is it already the end of January?
This week, I’d like to share some lessons I was reminded of from these two lilies in the same bouquet. They caught my attention because at first they were all closed up. They were sealed tighter than in the picture on the left side. Then, in typical fashion, as the days passed they opened up so that their beauty was on full display.
Once again, through God’s creation, I saw how we are called to be transformed. Little by little. Day by day. From Glory to Glory. We are slowly being transformed into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). Into all that God has created us to be. Yes, we hold this treasure in jars of clay (2 Corinthians 4:7). At just the right time, we get to share that treasure with others.
Whether you’re feeling like that closed up lily in the first picture or already radiating like the lily in the second shot, here are a few lessons to keep in mind as you continue throughout the year:
Stay connected and keep showing up. These lilies were part of an assorted arrangement of flowers. There was a rose, a carnation, a few daises and such. The lilies and the rose were the ones all buttoned up. As the lilies started to blossom, so did the rose. What’s my point? Sometimes we’re tempted to stay isolated when we’re feeling uncomfortable, awkward, and in the middle of a transition time. Yes, there’s a time to be alone with God, but there is also a time to surround yourself with others. When we continue to meet with fellow believers, we encourage one another and we find that we start growing together as well.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Start blooming right where you are. The lilies didn’t wait to be moved to another bouquet, they opened up and shined right where they were! Are you waiting for God to open some doors in your life? Who isn’t, right? Well, why not decide to invest your time and talents into the places that God has for you in this season? After all, it’s God who placed you in your neighborhood, country, workplace, school, etc… There’s a reason why you’re alive and part of this generation. How can you be a blessing right now?
“From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.” (Acts 17:26)
Don’t be afraid to shine for Christ! It’s so easy to be worried, scared, or timid about using your gifts and talents to honor God, but we must resist the urge to shrink back! Don’t let people intimidate you or cause you to doubt whether you should pursue your God-given dreams. The whole bouquet I mentioned above was stunning, but still the lilies towered over all the rest of the flowers. They were created to stand out. It’s not about boasting or comparing yourself to others. It’s about shining your light for the Glory of God!
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Getting to bloom doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen! Ok, so it only took the lilies a few days to open up once they arrived, but it still didn’t happen overnight. We also have to go through a process. Don’t let the process overwhelm you. Remember that God is with you. Keep praying, keep believing, keep obeying God, keep trusting His timing, and watch how He’ll come through for you! Amen!
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6)
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I’m an author, speaker, life coach, Bible school instructor and evangelist who wants to encourage and inspire you as you walk by abounding faith, hope and love and dare to live your God-given dreams! I’m also an author for Our Daily Bread. My NEW book God-Given Dreams: 6 Ways to Live Your Divine Purpose (NavPress) is available wherever books are sold.
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