The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree. He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing.

~Psalm 92:12-14 NKJV

Stand Out

I spent Thanksgiving with my birth mom who lives down a lonely dirt road in Oklahoma. For miles, the landscape was brown and dry–thirsty and tossed by the wind. Nothing flourished.

But then, I rounded a bumpy bend and gasped at one sight. A huge field of new winter wheat delighted my senses. The vibrant green sprouts stood in stark contrast to the bristly beige brush around it. I took my foot off the gas pedal and coasted so I could take in the beauty. The young wheat plants looked as if they lifted hands to their Maker.

Soon, I was back to the brown landscape, but the image stayed in my mind. I heard a whisper deep inside my spirit, Flourish! Don’t be afraid to stand out in this barren, broken world.

Flourish

God’s Word tells us how to flourish. Colossians 2:6-7 NIV reads, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

As our roots grow deep into God’s rich soil, we will grow strong in faith, love, and gratitude. Our lives will bloom with purpose as we point others to God.

Be Peculiar

God calls us to stand out, not blend in. Romans 12:2 NLT reads, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.”

When we think, speak, and behave God’s way, we will seem peculiar to the world. Some people will be drawn to the light within us but others will be repelled. We must be ready to share with the seekers and pray for the naysayers.

Flourish for His Glory

We flourish for God’s glory. We may receive praise for our good deeds and moral behavior. 

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

~Matthew 5:16 ESV

Every day is a perfect time to share about our source of eternal life, enduring hope, and contagious joy. We may get some flack from others. but that’s okay because we don’t live for human approval. We live life to the full for the glory and pleasure of God.

What are some ways you can stand out for God today?

Lord God, thanks to You, “I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God. I trust in [Your] unfailing love for ever and ever” (Psalm 52:8 NIV). Give me the courage to stand out for You and flourish for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2024: Flourish: Lee Merrill: All Rights Reserved