Look at today's newspaper. Watch the evening news. Chances are you'll see some of the millions of refugees in our world who have fled persecution or violence. The global problems seem so great and the solutions so inadequate that those who are helping on the front lines and those of us who are watching from a distance may suffer from what's called topsoil emerged. After planting seeds and watering the ground for several weeks, they had a green lawn.

If we want to plant a lawn or a garden, the soil must first be broken up. Even the most productive land must be turned over and tilled. Otherwise, growth is difficult, if not impossible.

God sometimes prepares the soil of human hearts to receive His Word by a breaking-up process. It may be through a disaster like a hurricane, flood, or fire. Other times it comes through sickness, disappointment, or deep sorrow.

If you have been experiencing trouble or heartache, God may be softening the soil of your life so that the seed of His Word can grow in you. Don't fight it. Let Him have His way. Allow Him to produce patience and maturity in your heart (Jas. 1:3-4). One day you'll thank Him for His soil preparation.  — David C. Egner