Blossoming Faith

As I strolled along the sidewalk, my eyes were drawn to the vibrant daffodils blanketing the patches of grass on the lawn. Spring has arrived, I chuckled to myself. How eagerly I awaited this new season, not only in the physical sense, to bask in the warmth of the sun and feel the gentle breeze caress my skin, but also in a spiritual sense. It felt as though I had been slipping back into the loneliness and despair that often grips us during the fall and winter months.

Taking a seat on a nearby bench, I began to take slow, deliberate breaths. Inhale, exhale, I repeated silently, finding solace in the rhythm. In the quiet stillness, I allowed my mind to clear, leaving behind the chaos and confusion of recent days as I reflected on the past year.

One reason I paused to admire the daffodils is because they served as a reminder of the pain and hardship, I endured last year. I recalled the swollen, inflamed knee that left me in agony and the special tea made from daffodils that offered relief. I remembered the physical suffering but also the steps that it took to heal and strengthen my body, enabling me to walk without a limp and to wear my favorite heels.

At that moment, it dawned on me that similar steps must be taken to reignite the passion and dreams within our Christian journey when we find ourselves in dark seasons or difficult places in life.

Just as I worked diligently to overcome physical challenges, I must continue to nurture my faith and persevere in my walk with Christ, even amid adversity. To awaken the dreams and purposes in our hearts so we can blossom, we must do the following.

Bible study.

We must be intentional about attending Bible Study weekly. This commitment to yourself and other women in the group is transformational and encouraging. Reading and studying the Bible is essential for understanding God’s Word and His will. Engaging with scripture regularly can provide insights, inspiration, and guidance for navigating life’s challenges and deepening one’s faith.

“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.” Joshua 1:8 NLT

Prayer.

Regular and earnest communication with God through prayer can deepen one’s connection with God. Praying for guidance, strength, and wisdom can help us feel closer to God and strengthen our faith.

“Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17,18

Service.

Actively serving others in need can be a powerful way to express faith and demonstrate God’s love. Engaging in acts of kindness, volunteering, and helping those less fortunate can deepen one’s understanding of God’s compassion and strengthen one’s faith in His providence. I took time to go on a mission trip to Poland in spite of the discomfort I felt because I had faith that God would provide healing to my body, and He did.

“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” Philippians 2:3,4 NLT

Trust and surrender.

Learning to trust in God’s plan and surrendering control over one’s life can be challenging but essential for building faith. Letting go of worries, fears, and doubts and placing trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty can lead to greater peace and confidence in His promises.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart. And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5,6 NLT

Gratitude.

Cultivating a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving acknowledges God’s blessings and provision in one’s life. Expressing gratitude for both big and small blessings foster a positive outlook and strengthens faith by recognizing God’s faithfulness and goodness.

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT

Fellowship.

Surrounding ourselves with a community of believers can provide encouragement, support, and accountability in the faith journey. Participating in group worship, Bible studies, and fellowship activities can foster spiritual growth and strengthen one’s faith.

“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25 NLT

By incorporating these practices into our lives, we can nurture and strengthen our faith in God, fostering a deeper and more intimate relationship with God.