About growing in dirt…

Matthew 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn. (NIV)

Most people do not like dirt. However, without dirt, we would have no food to eat. For farmers and gardeners, dirt is a blessing. Suffering can be compared to dirt. In suffering, if we commit all of our suffering to the glory of God, our suffering can help us grow in wisdom and in the love of God. To grow in suffering is not easy and takes effort. Just like a farmer exerts a great deal of effort and energy to plant, fertilize, cultivate, and harvest a crop in dirt, it takes effort to grow our heart, mind, and soul when we suffer. Satan's purpose in inflicting suffering is to take you down and to destroy you. God's purpose in being present in your suffering is to grow you and help you be more like Christ. Your suffering in your mortal life is only temporary. God wants you to commit your suffering to Him so your suffering will be for your good and His good. Your suffering can possess God's purpose and meaning if you place your suffering in His hands. Out of your suffering and tragedy can emerge the beauty of your growth in mind and spirit. With your heart in God's hands, you can grow in the dirt of suffering.