Abundance In The Bush - Country Devotions PART 2نموونە

Weeds

Every farmer and grazier knows the maddening frustration of weeds. They cause drastic damage to native vegetation, wildlife and watercourses. Billions of dollars are spent in control efforts every year. Here are a few common weeds in Australia:

Lantana (introduced): A chronic invasive pest, poisonous to stock. Its impenetrable growth makes trafficking and mustering very difficult. More than 1400 native Australian species are severely affected by lantana.

Parthenium (introduced): A noxious weed invading pastures and reducing beef production. It can cause allergies and skin reactions in people.

Giant Rats Tail (introduced): An aggressive grass rapidly taking over pasture and reducing beef production. Its tough leaves and stems can loosen the teeth of cattle and horses if they graze on it.

Wild tobacco (introduced): A large spreading shrub. Every part is poisonous to humans, especially the green berries.

Noogoora burr [pictured] (introduced): A shrub with sharp oval burrs which get caught in the hair of your dogs and horses and saddle blankets, making for interesting dance steps in your horse. Burrs contaminate sheep wool.

None of these curses is native to Australia. They all started with one small seed coming in from foreign shores, most likely in contaminated grain or livestock imports, or in a pot plant for someone’s garden.

Weeds – they’re frustrating, distracting, costly, limit productivity and vision and make life awfully uncomfortable - just like the troubles in our lives. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble.” Weeds and trouble. Both frustratingly inevitable! Then He says, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). Why should we take heart? Because Jesus has overcome.

Paul reckoned his troubles were ‘light and momentary’ - only for a moment - compared to what is coming. He looked ahead past his pain, and saw the great promises of God for the hereafter. One day there will be no more pain, no more sorrow or sickness, and NO more weeds! But that is not today. Do not lose heart. Remind yourself of God’s goodness to you in the past, His presence with you today, and His promises for your future.

O Lord, though troubles come my way, thank You for seeing me through them. Thank You for the day that is coming where there will be no more troubles and no more weeds! In Jesus’ name, Amen.