First Blossoms

Paul wrote, "I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ."
- Philippians 1:6 (NRSV)


AS a new Christian, I compared myself to other Christians. I felt I wasn't good enough. I was sure I was a disappointment to God.

Then one September day, my little wattle tree bloomed for the first time. I was so excited to see the early blossoms that I took my son to share the moment with me.

Next to that little tree was a more established wattle tree. At this time, it was big, bushy, and in full bloom. It was beautiful. I took great pride in that big wattle tree. However, I took as much pride in the smaller wattle tree that was beginning to bloom.

As I looked at my two trees, one beautiful and established, the other smaller but starting to bloom, I realized that God sees us in a similar way. Yes, God rejoices in established Christians who have grown in their faith and are producing an abundance of fruit. But I am sure God rejoices just as much in new Christians who are beginning to grow.


Prayer
God, we are sorry for comparing ourselves to other Christians. Help us to pay attention to our own growth. Amen.


From: UpperRoom Devotionals - Liz Palmer