Who designed "slow growth"?

Not sure how to put this into words.


This weekend I was in a conflicted state. In my spirit I was seeking God....but it was mixed in with moments of pure selfishness and controlling out of immaturity. What a sorry mix.


But looking back on the events of the weekend, I can suddenly see clearly. This is how it played out...

I met a man who used a phrase that I had heard before, so it was able to shoot past my ears and go straight into my spirit. He said:

"Character is more important than giftings."

He went on to explain how a man whom he respected, who was a powerful man of God used to manifest God's presence tangibly in the prophetic and miracles...fell.


I listened to the story. Sounded familiar. Hmmmm...maybe him but not me. Right God? I'd never do that, would I?

Within hours of soaking in God's presence and asking Him for more of Him, and hearing this reminder about character, I was exposing all sorts of immature behaviour. Basically, I was trying to control something that didn't need to be controlled. God allowed this behaviour to surface so that I could see how easy it is to "fall" into bad character...and, as usual, His kindness led me to repentence...again.


But it continued, because although I "heard" Him...I didn't hear deeply enough. It wasn't personalized yet. Still sitting on the surface. Not deep enough.


So this morning, God let one of my biggest, tallest, strongest trees...fall over.


This bugged me. NAGGED at my heart because He KNOWS how closely my garden symbolizes my spirit. And you read what I wrote on Saturday...how did I phrase it...?

"GGGGGRRRRRROWWWWW!!!"

Well, God knows what is best. This tree actually fell because it grew too fast. The roots didn't go down far enough (we don't have a lot of dirt) and couldn't support its rapid spring growth.



So...you mean slow and steady is what God wants for me? Growing to fast can actually be bad for me? God wants to work out my character flaws before He gives me the gifts He has planned?


Days like today when the message is sooooooo incredibly clear...and a tree had to fall over so it could soak in just a little deeper. Yes Lord. I hear you. I am willing to wait so that You can form your character deep within my heart.


How is your garden growing?