Twenty-six years ago, we bought the property that we have today. We tried for many years to build a garden and even plant fruit trees, but all attempts were unsuccessful. Unbeknownst to us, we had black walnut trees on the property. We discovered you can’t grow anything within fifty yards of a black walnut tree because the leaves and the nut husks have Juglone. This herbicide will kill any fruit tree or hinder garden plants.
With our newfound knowledge, we placed our garden and fruit trees away from any black walnut trees, and with the help of our chickens to fertilize them, all seemed well. But there was another lesson to learn: watering. We had to be consistent and couldn’t let the garden go longer than two days in the summer heat without watering. The trees required watering every day in the beginning. I believe you know where I’m going with this.
As Christians, we have the duty to spread God’s word just like Paul states in I Corinthians 3:6-8 – “I planted and Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” Each of us should be out doing the same as Paul and Apollos – in our workplaces, in our sports activities, with our friends and neighbors, anywhere we encounter anyone who’s not a member of the Lord’s church. We may never know if we are planting or watering, but we are aiding in this process when living in our communities and as we talk with others about the Bible. We may not be planting the seeds, but are one of many who are watering what someone else has planted. If that is not the case, be sure that after planting you go back and water and do it often.
Let’s not forget about Matthew 13:18-23, which describes the different types of soil. As stated above, nothing can grow properly in bad soil. As we plant and water, the soil should not stop us from doing our job. Just remember, soils can change, so never give up on someone. Be vigilant and watchful, for you never know when the time comes when someone’s attitude changes and they will listen to you.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit” (John 15:5).