Growing With God

Planting Seeds

Mark 16:15 says:

“And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”

This verse is part of what’s known as The Great Commission — Jesus’ final instruction to His disciples after His resurrection, right before He ascended into heaven. It captures the heart of Christian purpose: to share the message of salvation, love, and hope found in Jesus with everyone, everywhere.

Mark 16:15 reminds us that faith isn’t meant to be kept private — it’s meant to move, speak, and shine. Planting seeds of the gospel is how God continues His work through us — one conversation, one act of love, one moment of courage at a time. When you share the gospel through words, love, kindness, prayer, or testimony, you’re scattering seeds of truth. Just like in the parable of the sower (Matthew 13), every time you talk about Jesus or live in a way that reflects Him, you’re planting spiritual seeds in someone’s heart.

“The seed is the word of God.” — Luke 8:11

Those seeds hold the potential for growth — for someone to come to faith, heal, or rediscover hope. When we plant seeds, God helps them grow.

I never realized the true significance behind planting seeds until this year.

When I moved to Oahu, I met someone who I connected with very quickly. We talked about all things silly and serious, bonded over similar interests, unique life experiences, and enjoyed one another’s calming presence. I shared my testimony and openness about my relationship with God with this person, explaining how much my life has been altered in a positive way after following Christ. I brought them to my church with me, gave a few reading suggestions that meant something to me, and effortlessly weaved the grace of God’s love in my outlook on life. I only got the chance to spend time with this person for about a month before they moved away.

A few months later I received a letter in the mail. Little did I know, the seed that I had planted months ago had been watered and grown.

“…If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have been properly introduced to God. I don’t even think I’d consider picking the bible up to be honest… I now have a life with purpose.”

This letter detailed that this person had gone through some tough trials and tribulation; Arguably one of the most pressing series of challenges this person has ever experienced. This letter offered an abundance of gratitude to me for sharing my relationship with the Lord. This letter told me that if it weren’t for me, this person would have never reached for God; But when they did, it completely changed their life.

My tears wet the yellow pages.

This friend of mine has now read the bible cover-to-cover not once, but twice. They have also read my book recommendation The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren three times. Three times? They have plans to teach young kids about Jesus, they have joined bible study groups, spread the gospel, and fully given their life to Christ.

We often underestimate how powerful even the smallest acts of faith can be. You never know when a passing conversation, an invitation to church, or a prayer whispered for someone might become the very seed that changes their life. God doesn’t call us to force growth — He calls us to plant and trust that He will bring it to life in His perfect timing.

I used to think sharing my faith had to be bold and public — that I needed the right words or the right moment. But this experience taught me that it’s often the quiet, genuine moments that speak the loudest. When you live your life anchored in Christ, people see His light in you. That’s how seeds are planted; through authenticity, not performance.

So keep planting. Keep loving. Keep showing grace. You might never see every flower that blooms, but heaven surely does.

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” — 1 Corinthians 3:6