"The kingdom of God is like a man who casts seed upon the soil; and he goes to bed at night and gets up by day, and the seed sprouts and grows--how, he himself does not know. The soil produces crops by itself; first the blade, then the head, then the mature grain in the head. But when the crop permits, he immediately puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come" Mark 4:26-29.

Scientific explanations are given as to the process of plant life growth, but the most basic cause of growth remains a mystery. Similarly, Jesus says, the growth of the kingdom of God is mystifying.

From all appearances, the kingdom of God seems to be diminishing rather than flourishing, if church attendance and participation are any indication. But, all is not as it seems. The true indicator will be the harvest, not the growing season. That which is largely hidden from view now is to be seen fully on the day of harvest.

If agriculture is Jesus’ illustration, then the farmer serves as our example. James 5:7-8 says, “Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.”

From planting until harvest, there is a growth cycle that cannot be altered. Wise farmers and gardeners know that they must be patient during the process. Productivity can be impacted through cultivating and fertilizing, but the growth cycle is predetermined. Similarly, we too must be patient as to spiritual progress in our life as well as the lives of others.

This much we may be sure of: the smallest of seeds was planted over 2,000 years ago, and there has been steady, silent, and impressive growth ever since. A day of harvest is rapidly approaching, according to a predetermined time frame. The priority as we await that time is the health and productivity of the crop.

We do well to ask: How is the garden growing? While we cannot control the harvest, we can assess and assist the health of the harvest. How am I developing kingdom health in my life today, as well as the lives of other kingdom citizens? By asking and addressing these questions, we are seeking first the kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ & https://kingdomdreamer.blogspot.com/

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