When one meditates upon who God is, there are many titles, adjectives, and descriptors that may come to mind. According to the pages of Scripture, our God is a God of War (Exodus 15:3), He is a Shepherd (Psalm 23:1), and He is a Refuge (Psalm 46:1). There are many characteristics that could be attributed to God, but did you know He is a gardener? In Genesis 2:8, the Bible says, “The LORD God planted a garden…” (NASB 95).
In the beginning of time, God planted a garden for man, and it is in this garden that we can learn more about the Gardener. What does this garden teach us about God? It teaches us that He is a provider! In this garden He provided man with food (Genesis 2:9), work (Genesis 2:15), and even a helpmate (Genesis 2:18). God had given Adam everything he needed!
Today, God will not plant you a literal garden, but He will still provide. He has provided us His Son (John 3:16), His Word (2 Timothy 3:16,17; 2 Peter 2:19-21), and, therefore, everything we need to walk through this life free from anxiety and full of peace and hope (Matthew 6:25-34; 2 Peter 1:3; Philippians 4:4-7; Ephesians 1:3ff). When you reflect upon our God and who He is, add Gardener to the list. God loves you, and has provided you with everything you need. May this move us to draw closer to Him, and serve Him as we ought.
-Bryce Mayfield