Pastor Virgil Lee, New Life Church
Over the past few weeks, everything seems to be coming to life with spring in full swing. As the old adage goes, April showers bring May flowers. Over the years, I have come to really appreciate a nice flowerbed and a well-groomed lawn. Still, a few dandelions pop up from time to time, reminding me that good care requires ongoing attention.
No matter how vigilant I am, weeds always find a way to appear. You can spray and pull, but some seem to linger and hold on.
All of this has made me think about how yard work mirrors our spiritual lives. We are never finished cultivating either one. There is always a new threat to the yard or a new danger for the flowers. We pay attention to the forecast so we can bring delicate plants in before wind or hail arrives. We add fertilizer when growth slows, prune when branches become unruly, and water when drought threatens. The same attentiveness applies to our inner life. If we are not attentive, the enemy can be like a bird dropping a few weed seeds, the winds of the world can scatter dandelion seeds, and the storms of life can bruise or uproot the blossoms we have worked hard to nurture.
So, what practical steps can we take to keep both the garden and the heart healthy? First, be proactive rather than reactive. Preparing the soil well prevents many problems later, just as spiritual disciplines set a foundation for resilience. Second, remain consistent. A little daily care—pulling a weed, checking for pests, spending a few minutes in prayer or reflection—compounds over time. Third, respond early. When you spot the first sign of trouble, you address it quickly, so it doesn’t spread. Fourth, seek good advice. Gardeners learn from neighbors, books, and local extension services; spiritually, we grow from wise counsel, Scripture, and community.
Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” That verse captures the essence of tending both garden and soul. Our hearts influence our choices, relationships, and priorities. Guarding it with diligence means paying attention to what we allow in, pruning habits that choke growth, and nourishing what produces beauty and fruit.
Finally, remember to enjoy the process. Gardening is not only about work; it is about delighting in color, scent, and the life that returns each season. Likewise, tending your heart should bring joy, peace, gratitude, and a sense of purpose. As you cultivate your lawn and flowerbeds this spring, let that care remind you to cherish and protect your inner life. Be proactive, stay watchful, and treat your soul with tenderness. The beauty you cultivate today will bless you and others for seasons to come.
If you don’t have a church home, we would love for you to come to New Life at 8:30 a.m. every Sunday in the clubhouse.