My family did something we’ve never done before. We started a garden in our backyard—nothing too major, just a few vegetables, some herbs, and a small fruit tree. With only a few weeks in, our garden has become more than we expected. It has become a sanctuary.

No matter when one of us arrives in our sacred place, we discover signs of gradual growth. Admittedly, gradual growth doesn’t always come with bells and whistles. Still, its existence is strong evidence of progress from what we knew was bare minimum. We notice leaves are standing upright, and for select plants, we see a budding of dainty flowers. And then suddenly, a miniature vegetable or fruit appears. Hallelujah!

God has a way of drawing us into spaces that allow for growth experiences, causing us to stand upright and do right. Even though the experiences seem to come out of nowhere, we know when they arrive, it’s been a ‘long time coming.’ Suddenly, we feel differently; we reflect differently; we become new people with new expectations. Growth becomes absolute. We resolve; we won’t settle for anything less. 

Try this: Dust off, Embrace, and Honor!

1. Dust off your discernment so that you are spiritually awake and present for life-altering growth experiences.
2. Embrace the great work God is establishing in you, being sure to guard every hint of progress.
3. Honor your sacred moments of growth with sudden praise. Don’t hesitate to give God what is due Him!

God knows what He’s planted in you. He knows what will bloom. And it shall happen, suddenly.

“Yes indeed, it won’t be long now.” God’s Decree. “Things are going to happen so fast your head will swim, one thing fast on the heels of the other. You won’t be able to keep up. Everything will be happening at once—and everywhere you look, blessings! Blessings like wine pouring off the mountains and hills. – Amos 9:13