In August 2008, my husband and I embarked on a new chapter of our lives as a married couple. The excitement of our new journey was quickly overshadowed by the economic downturn just a few months later, leading to my husband losing his job in October 2008. Our first year of marriage was fraught with challenges, but it was during this time that we learned invaluable lessons in perseverance, trust, and abiding in the Lord.
As we navigated these difficult times, we discovered a passion that would bring us closer together and to God: country living and gardening. While we couldn’t move to the country immediately, we immersed ourselves in learning about gardening. This new endeavor became a profound metaphor for our lives, teaching us how to combat the weeds and thorns that threatened our peace and growth.
The Big Move
In 2012, we finallymade the move to the country, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of city life. The city, with its constant noise and distractions, left us with little time for each other and for God. Through our Bible study, we realized that God intended for His people to be surrounded by His creations in nature. Our first parents were placed in a garden (Genesis2:8,15), where they were to work and labor. This is the model for our home and all the children who live with us (that’s a different story).
Sharp Contrasts
City life, with its congestion and artificial attractions, contrasted sharply with the peace and simplicity of country living. The first city was built by Cain (Genesis 4:16,17,22), filled with artificial elements that numb the senses. In contrast, we sought a “peaceable habitation, and insure dwellings, and in quiet resting places” (Isaiah 32:18).
A Sanctuary
Our garden became our sanctuary, a place where we found solace and purpose. We treated it as our baby, nurturing it with love and care. Gardening has a unique way of demanding attention and diligence. If neglected, weeds will overtake it, mirroring how life's challenges can overwhelm us if we don't stay vigilant. We found joy in feeling the soil between our fingers as we tilled the ground and planted seeds. The harvest was always a rewarding experience, and sharing our bounty with others filled us with a sense of fulfillment and community.
Relentless Battle
After 15 years of gardening, we still face the relentless battle against weeds and thorns. Yet, through it all, we continue to grow in Christ together. Our country home, affectionately named "Phil-a-Garden" after our last name, stands as a testament to our love for gardening and the lessons we've learned along the way. There are moments when the weeds seem insurmountable, and the temptation to give up is strong. But we press on, understanding that gardening has taught us to rise above our feelings and get the work done.
Benefits of Gardening
Research has shown numerous benefits of gardening, not just for physical health, but for mental and emotional well-being as well. The act of nurturing plants has been linked to reduced stress levels, improved mood, and a sense of accomplishment. For us, it has been all that and more. Gardening has become a spiritual exercise, a way to connect with God and understand His teachings on a deeper level. It has taught us patience, resilience, and the beauty of seeing the fruits of our labor—both literally and figuratively.
Seeds and Weeds
In our garden, every seed planted and every weed pulled is a reminder of the work God does in our hearts and minds. Just as we tend to our garden, God tends to us, producing the fruits and vegetables we need to cultivate His character within us. The lessons are abundant for those willing to get their hands dirty and allow God to work through them.
Growing & Thriving
Since moving to the country and embracing gardening, we have grown physically, mentally, and spiritually. The Lord opened doors for us to serve our community by first having a health food store, then a restaurant, and now just serving at MindCare, a counseling center. We are also involved in beekeeping, conducting presentations around the world on mental health, and slowly becoming an outpost center. Our goal is to show others that the Lord is no respecter of persons; what He did for us, He can do for anyone.
Grateful for Growth
As we continue our journey in gardening and homesteading, we remain grateful for the growth it has brought to our marriage and our faith. We look forward to many more seasons of planting, tending, and harvesting, always remembering that with each new challenge comes an opportunity to grow closer to each other and to God.
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