Shedding our Outer Shells

When we look at the above cycle in the life of a Seed.  We can see that a lot of what happens to a seed is in secret.  First it lies dormant in the ground.  It then begins to germinate, simultaneously sending roots deeper in the ground as well as a seedling above the surface.  Even as an immature plant, there is a seed cap, protecting the young plant from the elements.  It is not until that Outer Shell is shed, that the human eye even begins to take note, and really see this young plant. Finally it comes to full maturity and blooms with Magnificent blooms.  For some that is the end of its cycle, for others, the blooms fade, and fruit begins to form and grow to maturity.  But it is that Shedding of its Outer Shell that allows the plant to really begin to mature.

And so it is with us.  This life, its hardships, disappointments and struggles, often leave us with a tough Outer Shell.  All the Beauty, Fruit and Kindness are trapped inside, just waiting to spring forth.  Only God can coax us, call us forth, draw us out.  Only He is safe enough to enable us to shed that Outer shell, and become who He envisioned us to be, in  time. Here is what He says about this in His Word.

²⁴ Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. (John 12)

Let us die to ourselves and, with God’s help, shed our Outer Shells.  In this way God can begin to produce a harvest that will bear fruit into Eternity.  Let us soften under the tender, gentle and healing touch of our Lord and Savior, Jesus.  He will make us Beautiful in His Time. Rest in Him.