Beyond Problem-Solving: A Journey in Spiritual Nurture

Today I've been reflecting deeply on this idea of spiritual growth and how we help each other along the way. It's fascinating, really - this image of a garden keeps coming to mind. Just like you can't force a seed to grow, you can't force someone's spiritual journey.

I was reading about Paul's work in Corinth today. He had such a unique way of seeing his role - not as some master gardener with all the answers, but as someone who simply planted seeds of new life. It got me thinking about my own approach with people. How often do I try to force growth or fix everything, instead of just planting and watering?

Something that really struck me - when people come to me for counseling, my first instinct is always to jump in with solutions. But I had this realization: I've got plenty of my own unsolved issues! Who am I to think I can fix everyone else's? Maybe that's not even the point. Maybe it's more about creating space for growth, like giving plants water and letting God handle the actual growing part.

I tried something different with client last week when she came to me stressed about work. Instead of offering advice, we just read some scripture together and prayed. It felt awkward at first, like I wasn't doing enough. But there was something beautiful about it - both of us just sitting there, drinking in truth together, letting it refresh us. It felt more real somehow, more genuine than my usual attempts to fix everything.

I wonder if this is what real spiritual parenting looks like - not having all the answers, but helping create the conditions where life can grow. Not solving problems, but providing nourishment. Not forcing growth, but faithfully watering and trusting God with the results.

Need to think more about this. It's changing how I see my role in others' lives.

Until tomorrow, Chaplain Mark