“…be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” – Ephesians 6:10:18 (NIV)
In the cultivation process, the farmer selects the right crop for his environment. We must create the right environment of honesty and a good heart, which is receptive to God’s Word. We must also plant the right seeds. According to Isaiah 64:6, our righteousness is as filthy rags; therefore, let us allow the husbandman, Jesus, to plant His seed of righteousness in us.
Our husbandman also considers irrigation and fertilisation. Thus, we must be in a place where the Word of God can flood and impregnate us. If we desire optimal growth, we must engage with the Word of God, our primary source of spiritual nourishment. The onus is on us to ensure we read, study, meditate and obey His Word.
The Word God says in John 15:4-5, if you abide in Him and allow His words to abide in you, you will bear much fruit. But you must remain in Him. Oh, the joy of answered prayers! When we consistently pray, we draw living water from the Holy Spirit, which refreshes and guides us into all truth.
Worship is also a very integral part of our spiritual watering and fertilising. It draws us into God’s presence. Our worship is actually acknowledging God for Who He is, His Sovereignty, His goodness, and His faithfulness.
As the branches are attached to the vine, we are to remain connected to Jesus and in doing so, we are in His presence continually. Psalm 16:11 says that, in the presence of the Lord, there is fullness of joy. As we do the things that will cultivate joy, we will reap a harvest.
It should be noted that joy is not fleeting happiness, but it is rooted in a consistent relationship with our Creator. Habakkuk 3:16-18 (NIV) says no matter the situation, “…Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Saviour.“ Joy is not a temporary emotion that would fade when trials come. It is sustained by us abiding in God’s presence and allowing the husbandman to work in and through us. And yes, His joy is complete.
Prayer
Father, we surrender to You today. Thank You for this joy that only You can give. May it remain in us that our joy may be full. We pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 134; 1 Peter 5; Daniel 1; Daniel 2:1-23