A Kernel That Springs Forth Life

Scripture: “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” – John 12:24

Observation/Application: 
I love this verse because it reminds me of why I chose the tag line for the Baptized And Alive website, “Dead to sin – Alive in Christ”. As the grain of wheat dies, so does our old self when we are baptized. Our sins are washed clean and we are born again with a new life, and a new start. And through this new life and faith many new seeds are produced. Many more believers come to know Jesus Christ as they see the miracle that is performed in our lives.

So we must fall to the ground, like a kernel of wheat. And when our old self dies and we fall, our new life springs forth from the ground and we rise new. Life springing forth from the ground is an amazing piece of God’s beautiful creation. As we were formed from dust in the beginning (Gen 2:7), and life sprang forth, so will life spring forth as our old self dies and our new life begins. And as we grow in the faith, we become stronger over time. Just like a new seedling is blown and fractured and made stronger by heavy winds and rain, so will we be made stronger as we walk through the fire with Jesus. 

One important thing to remember is that God does not promise us that we will never be tested, or that anything bad will ever happen to us. Conversely, we read the opposite. John 16:33 says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” It also says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.” So as we face trials, let this not cause us to question God, or get mad at God. Instead, let us turn to God knowing that He will always be with us. No matter what we face, God will always be there. And we can have peace knowing that no matter what, God’s promises are true. What He promises always comes to pass. We are true heirs of God our Father, and nothing can keep us from His promise of eternal life.

I think Romans 6:4 says it best, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” As we rise today from our beds, let us be reminded of a seed rising forth from the ground. Let our day be full of life and love, as we walk through the day with Jesus, the giver of life, by our side. 

Prayer: 
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word this morning. Let us fall before you like a kernel of wheat to the ground. Help us to seek you first and humble ourselves before you. Draw us close to you, and help us to walk with you all throughout the day. Spring forth our new life in You. Help us to trust in you Lord, and to fully surrender to you. For your ways are not our ways. Your ways are always good. Your ways are always perfect. You are life. Keep us away from death and things that might do us harm. Forgive us or sins, both seen and unseen. Strengthen us where we are weak. Reveal to us your goodness. Help us to see what others cannot see. Give us wisdom and peace. Fill us with your love. Let your Holy Spirit fill us and overflow like a raging waterfall. We love you and thank you so very much for all that you have done, all that you continue to do, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

Image courtesy of: orangeaurochs

Photo By orangeaurochs

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