One of my favorite things about coffee, besides drinking it, is the atmosphere and ambiance that it creates. I have a unique coffee shop that I love to go to when I need to be in an environment that inspires me. The space is creative and unique and has a special coffee roast that is sublime. This atmosphere is conducive to my learning and growth. I think what makes it so unique is my expectation before I walk in the door. I expect to learn, grow, and believe the Lord will speak and encourage my heart. Today as we take another sip together, I think the same for you as you read this blog. So before you sit down, let us check our atmosphere as I share one of the most important lessons I have learned from a sunflower.
Now that you are ready to have a seat. Cheers to our third sip. Let's be inspired to learn from the sunflower 🌻 and be challenged with action items to sustain growth.
Lesson 1 In their bud phase, sunflowers will literally seek out and face the sun. Their name means TURNS WITH THE SUN.
Our action item from Lesson 1 is to keep your eyes fixed on the SON Jesus!!! I love how the scripture helps us “looking unto Jesus, the author, and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews 12:2 NKJV
Lesson 2 Heliotropism- this means that the sunflower head continually shifts to face the sun as it moves across the sky during the day.
Our action item from Lesson 2 is a good one of practical wisdom. We must choose the path that is directed by the SON. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV
Lesson 3 When FULLY Mature, sunflowers are used to soak up nuclear toxins. They are used to decontaminate soil.
In our action item from Lesson 3, we must desire mature growth and be prepared to fight. It’s a decision to utilize the tools that will enhance your spiritual journey. Being mature is a decision to be selflessly aware that you need to use wisdom to de-escalate and build others. Maybe God is calling you to fight for someone and stand in the gap.
“Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”
Ephesians 6:13 NKJV
“rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;.”
Romans 12:12 NKJV
Lesson 4 A single sunflower can produce up to 2,000 seeds. They grow rapidly and are used to reproduce once they are planted.
In our action item from Lesson 4 we must understand as believers we must make disciples and be willing to rapidly produce the opportunity to spread the gospel. Also what I love is that we get the privilege of walking alongside our brothers and sisters to help in any way we can.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit,”
Matthew 28:19 NKJV
Lesson 5 Sunflowers can be used to support other vegetables in a garden because of their strong tree-like stalks that are resilient.
In our action item from Lesson 5 we must sharpen and support one another no matter what. I am so grateful for the other sunflowers in my life who have helped and supported me when I was leaning on each side. Be the support for someone who needs to grow stronger together.
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
Proverbs 27:17 ESV
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