You Can’t Grow What You Don’t Water: Making Time for God

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.” - Jeremiah 17:7-8

We live in a culture that praises busyness and applauds productivity, but if we’re not careful, we’ll confuse movement with growth. Just because you’re doing a lot doesn’t mean you’re becoming more like Christ.

Real spiritual growth doesn’t happen accidentally—it’s intentional. It’s cultivated. And just like a plant needs sunlight, water, and rich soil, your spiritual life requires consistent time in God’s presence.

The Power of Consistency

There was a season in my life when I confused “serving God” with “spending time with God.” I was volunteering, showing up for every church event, and reading inspirational posts online. But I was running on empty. I had mistaken spiritual activity for intimacy.

It wasn’t until I got quiet—really quiet—that I realized I was neglecting the most important part of my growth: relationship. I wasn’t watering my spirit. I was withering in secret while blooming in public.

God doesn’t want performance. He wants proximity. He desires relationship over routine, communion over checklists.

Cultivating Time with God

Spiritual growth begins with prioritizing God above everything else—not out of obligation, but out of love. You don’t have to spend two hours in prayer for it to count. You just have to show up—open, honest, and expectant.

Here are a few simple ways to cultivate your time with God:

·       Set a specific time each day—morning, lunch, or evening. God honors your effort.

·       Start with scripture. Read a chapter or even just one verse, and ask God, “What are You showing me today?”

·       Journal your thoughts. Reflect on what God is revealing in His Word and how it applies to your life.

·       Pray honestly. Don’t focus on fancy words—focus on connection. Let Him meet you where you are.

A Gentle Challenge

Take a moment to reflect:

·       When was the last time you sat with God without distractions?

·       Is your relationship with Him thriving—or just surviving?

·       What does your spirit need right now that you’ve been ignoring?

You can’t grow what you don’t water.

You can’t bloom where you haven’t planted.

You can’t bear fruit without abiding in the Vine.

God is inviting you deeper—not into religion, but into real relationship.

Journal With Me

In my Abide Journal, I’ve included prompts to help you slow down, reflect, and reconnect. Here's one for today:

Prompt: What’s one thing I can let go of this week to make more room for God?