Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Seed time and harvest

For all the promises of God in Him [Jesus] are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 2 Corinthians 1:20

When we don't see some of God’s promises happening for us—even when we're trying to do everything right according to His Word—it doesn't mean his promises aren't true.

The Bible often refers to the principle of sowing and reaping to convey certain spiritual truths. Waiting for God’s promises to reach fruition can be illustrated in this way, much how different seeds can vary in the amount of time it takes between planting and harvest. Some seeds that we sow sprout up almost immediately and we see a quick harvest, like beans and squash. But the roots only descend a couple of inches, the fruit only lasts for one season until winter wipes it out or something as simple as a family of squash bugs or a bad storm decimates your harvest. Beans and squash take little effort to plant and maintain and are a great choice for the novice (or impatient) gardener.

But what happens when you plant an apple seed? It grows slowly as its roots spread deep into the ground and its branches grow thick and strong. You won't even see the fruit for five-10 years. It must survive many winters, scorching summers, storms, disease and pests before it will ever reap a harvest. Once the harvest comes, it will produce fruit for the rest of its life.

God has given us things like squash and beans because they sustain us in the waiting. However, we mustn’t count him unfaithful or a liar when the apple seeds haven't produced yet. His promises are true, period.

Never give up on the apple tree before its harvest time arrives. Otherwise, you'll miss out on all the fresh apples, apple pies, apple dumplings, cider, apple butter and more that you'll get to enjoy for years and years to come. Similarly, some of God’s blessings are enjoyed with little effort, while others only arrive when our spirits are mature enough to receive them.