"We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me." - Colossians 1:28-29

It's that time of the year to plant new shrubs. We're going down to the nursery to choose some nice plants for around the house. We'll dig, plant, fertilize and water. Then, if we're wise, we'll continue to care for the little guys with regular watering, weeding and periodic fertilizing. Over time, if we nurture them, they will grow up into beautiful and mature plants.

The spiritual life is much the same as our landscaping endeavors. When Paul led people to Christ, he worked hard to nurture them. His goal was to present them to Christ as mature believers. Such ministry is hard work, but Paul labored with the energy of Christ and eventually saw great results.

Are you investing your life in the nurturing of souls for Christ? Do you work hard at bringing others to maturity in their faith? You may grow weary in the effort, but the energy of Christ will be more than sufficient for the task. Don't let your little plants wither in the hot sun of the world; nurture and water them and they will grow to be beautiful in Jesus.