Barley Growth!

The Barley is growing fast!

If you were one of those who took home barley seeds as an experiment and exercise out of our In the Garden series, you are likely seeing some real growth.

Maria and I spread the hillsides with the seeds and they have really done well. Of course the turkeys and deer are feasting away in some areas, but they can’t get it all.

Here are a few spiritual insights that I’ve perceived as our Barley has grown to encourage us:

1. The growth of the barley has really crowded out the weeds, especially thistles. 

As we live lives with God and seek His ways with the Holy Spirit’s power, guidance and care…there’s less room for sin. And we improve the soil (community) around us as well and even add stability.  

2. Watching the growth is just fun.  Spiritual growth (yielding fruit of the Spirit) isn’t always fast, easy or even noticeable.  But sometimes it is.  

Don’t you love when you sense growth in your patience or kindness?

Perhaps instead of gossiping you toss in some encouragement into a conversation about someone?  

Maybe you’re seeing growth in trusting God in a season of trials…isn’t it refreshing to take a break from the burdens of worry and anxiety?  

How are you growing?

Celebrate God’s goodness in your life with Him.

3.  I’m looking forward to the grain. 

My daughter Sierra asked if we could try and make some bread from the barley once it has matured. We are going to give it a try, turkeys keep out. The most impactful point of growing barley is to get the grain.

Jesus tells us that multiplication is part of His plan in the Kingdom. 

I’m trusting God to multiply His work in our church by producing fruit many times over. He’s our gardener, let’s be expectant.  

Any other thoughts or stories with barley out there?