Day 9 – Preparation of the soil
Preparation of the soil (Soul)
“Our soulish area (mind, willpower, emotions, and heart) need preparation in order to allow God to work with us during our winter seasons to reach our purpose (harvest). Farmers prepare the soil by plowing (loosening & digging), leveling (even distribution), and manuring (adding nutritional supplements). We have to prepare our hearts in the following ways: Loosening & digging – getting rid of all the unclean and unnecessary things. Trust Holy Spirit to guide you as you cleanse yourself through repentance and prayer. This prepares us to receive the seed (word of God) and allow it to grow. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things [which are dishonorable—disobedient, sinful], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified [set apart for a special purpose and], useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:21 (AMP)
Even distribution – your minds should be sober and your hope fixed on God only. Our thoughts must be alert and steadfast, not allowing anything to move our focus from God.
“So prepare your minds for action, be completely sober [in spirit – steadfast, self-disciplined, spiritually and morally alert], fix your hope completely on the grace [of God] that is coming to you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:13 (AMP)
Manuring – reaching out to God and being established in Him only. Drawing your strength from Him. Our hearts must be directed towards God, not trusting in our own ability but on His power through the Holy Spirit.
“If you direct your heart [on the right path] And stretch out your hands to Him, If sin is in your hand, put it far away [from you], And do not let wrongdoing dwell in your tents; Then, indeed, you could lift up your face [to Him] without moral defect, And you would be firmly established and secure and not fear.” Job 11:13-15 (AMP)
Prayer: Holy Spirit please guide and teach us how to prepare our hearts and minds for God to come and perform His perfect will in us. As we endure our winter season, help us to see it as an opportunity to prepare us for our harvest. Amen
What can we pray for? prayer@womenoftheword.co.za
