A tomato can't plant itself. Seems like a logical statement, right? Think about it. A gardener has to seek out the seed first. Then carefully and at the right time, sew the seed into the right kind of soil. Provide protection. Provide water. Provide sunlight. Under these perfect conditions, the seed will germinate and start to grow. But it still can't grow on it's own. It is completely reliant on the same protection, water, and sunlight that is provided by the gardener. As the seedling grows the Gardener provides a larger pot with more soil so the plant can spread it's roots, and provide a good foundation for the plant. When it is time, and the plant has matured a little more, the Gardener can then bring the plant outside to be transplanted into a sunny spot in the garden...where it will grown even more and eventually bear fruit. But the fruit only comes because the Gardener never stops providing the same protection, water, and light. The tomato can do nothing without the Gardener planning it out first, and doing the work needed to see the plant through to the harvest.
"...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ."
Philippians 1:6
In the same way, what can we do that God hasn't already planned for and prepared us for? God didn't send Jesus to the cross when we came to Him for salvation. That was already done - He began that good work. When we accepted Christ, we became like the seedling...growing because of everything the Gardener had already planned for and worked hard for. But we don't grow on our own strength...we rely on Him to carry out His work until completion. He is faithful. He planned for you. If you feel lost or discouraged, turn your head up - soak in His light. Stretch out your hands, and let His Word be the water you need. He is your protector. Study the Scripture he has waiting for you...grow those roots in the foundation of His strength and power. Be confident of His promise.
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