Benefits of knowing how to garden

" She considereth a field and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard." Prov. 31:16

What does gardening have to do with virtuous womanhood? Well, it's one of the skills mentioned in Proverbs 31. But does a woman have to have a green thumb to be godly? Of course not. Before we begin to talk about the benefits of gardening, let's be sure we understand that God isn't going to ask a woman how many plants she's grown before He'll let her into Heaven.

What is significant about Prov. 31's reference to gardening is the character involved in this skill. To plant a garden big enough to feed her family, a woman must be a hard worker, plan ahead, have some know-how....and this particular verse seems to hint that the virtuous woman knows how to make wise business decisions, and invest in projects.

So if you only own a tiny square of land, or simply have no desire to garden, you needn't feel as if you are a peg below the woman who can cultivate acres of land and put up hundreds of jars of produce. Character is most important. But if God has called you to pursue this enjoyable skill, then rejoice!

~ Growing food for your family is frugal; home-raised is usually cheaper than store-bought.
~ Gardening is healthy; lots of exercise and sunshine.
~ Being with plants is relaxing, and allows us to see a little more of God's character as Creator.

If you like the idea of growing things, but have always been timid about trying, let me encourage you to try something small this year. It doesn't have to be a 50'x50' plot - try one tomato plant on your patio.

Join me next "Growin' Garden" day for practical ideas and tips for starting seedlings indoors.