GROWING A GIANT
On October 10, Ron Wallace of Rhode Island made pumpkin-growing history when his enormous gourd tipped the scales at an astonishing 3,156 pounds! That's nearly 1.6 tons of pumpkin. Wallace shattered the previous world record by almost 300 pounds.
At its peak, this monster pumpkin was gaining as much as sixty pounds a day and required 150 gallons of water. But Wallace didn't accomplish this remarkable feat on his own. He credits his community in Warren, Rhode Island, for helping him achieve his goal. Fellow growers shared valuable advice, while others helped move and transport the world-record pumpkin. (Smithsonian Magazine, October 20, 2026)
There's a lesson here for all of us. Spiritual growth, like growing a giant pumpkin, requires the right environment, proper nourishment, and a little help from others.
Second Peter 3:18 tells us to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord." Our greatest goal as followers of Jesus isn't simply to become better people. It's to become more like Him.
Ephesians 3:17 describes how this happens. Our "roots go down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love" (TLB).
A giant pumpkin needs rich soil, plenty of water, and sunlight to thrive. Likewise, we need to sink our roots deeply into the rich soil of God's grace, drink deeply from the living water of the Holy Spirit, and bask in the light of Jesus' love. And just as Ron Wallace benefited from a community of fellow growers, we need the encouragement, wisdom, and support of a caring church family.
Jesus offers the nurture and care our souls need to flourish (Matthew 11:28-30). But spiritual growth requires a lifetime of allowing God to shape us into the people He wants us to become.
Take time daily to nurture your soul. Spend time with Jesus, draw nourishment from His Word, and surround yourself with people who encourage your faith. Let your roots run deep in the soil of God's love. You may never grow a 3,000-pound pumpkin, but you can cultivate a faith that grows stronger every day!
PONDER:
In what area of your life do you sense the need for spiritual growth: anger, fear, doubt, complacency, or something else?
What practical steps can you take to allow your roots to grow deeper in God's love?
PURSUE: Read and meditate on Ephesians 3:14-21.
Lord Jesus, more than anything, I want to become more like You. Plant my roots deeply in Your love. Nourish my faith, change me from the inside out, and help me grow into the person You want me to be. Amen.
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Photo courtesy of USA Today