Daily Devotions

July 8, 2008

EVERGREEN

1 Peter 4:7–11

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace. (1 Peter 4:10)

My grandfather loved and cultivated dogwood trees on an acre of land handed down to me. He felt dogwoods were the most beautiful trees God created and, out of respect for him, I won’t allow any of them to be removed unless they are severely damaged or dying. As a result, growing grass is challenging, and so years ago I planted some ivy ground cover.

I don’t have a green thumb, but fortunately this ivy turned out to be quite hardy. It’s green year round and thrives in harsh conditions. Although it spreads in all directions, it doesn’t entangle other plant life as it grows and brings to life dark patches of soil. It is a plant that just seems to keep adding beauty to our yard.

Our relationship with God through prayer, His Word, and fellowship will keep us evergreen like the ivy and enable us to grow even in harsh conditions. The gifts we receive through relationship with the Father allow us to reach out in every direction. To family, friends, and strangers. At church, work, and play. In familiar details of life and in unexpected, uncomfortable circumstances.

What better way is there to honor and glorify God than to spread life and beauty to those who are experiencing patches of darkness in their lives?

—Tonya Ashley

Think of people you can serve and ways to administer God’s grace.

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