While I was outside this morning, I noticed this little flower. It’s so pretty growing and blooming in the crack of the concrete despite being in the hottest place in the backyard. I’m not sure who coined the phrase, “Bloom where you’re planted,” but for the longest time, I didn’t understand….or maybe I really didn’t want to understand or do it all the time. I can be pretty hard-headed when I feel strongly about something or some situation. I can either dig in my heels or throw up my hands and walk away…..and maybe I act hastily without considering if God has planted me right where I am OR if I have planted my own self there. So, how do I figure this out? What am I supposed to do?

Proverbs 16:9 says, “We can make our own plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” And yes, I can certainly get off the path God has planned for me. I know with every fiber of my being that I have done just this….more than once. But sometimes God will put us somewhere or allow something to come into our lives that we never, EVER expected. And sometimes it’s not the most beautiful or pleasant situation or circumstance at all. Sometimes it makes no sense and can leave us feeling frustrated, disappointed, and alone. All alone. Bummer. Scary. Confused. “What am I supposed to do now, God?”

And then that still small voice whispers, “Be still. Trust me. Bloom where I have planted you.” Lean in. Look around. God will never ask you to bloom if He hasn’t already and will continue to provide for your every, single need. If I am somewhere God never intended me to be, all the work and watering I do for myself will NEVER cause me to live and thrive abundantly….the way God intends….and it’s EXHAUSTING. But if God has planted me….and I trust, remain patient, and am obedient then I WILL bloom, live, and thrive even in the most desolate places….not because of me, but ALL because of Him.