A GARDEN IN THE HEART

                                                  Colossians 3:15, 17

Introduction

     A.  My decision to plant a garden.

     B.  In order to have a good harvest, preparation and cultivation are necessary.

     C.  Let’s think about planting a garden - not in the soil, but in our hearts.

Body

      I.  Planting a garden of gratitude in the heart.

          A.  First, we must remove the weeds.

                1.  The weed of pride,  Luke 18:9-14

                2.  The weed of worry,  Matthew 6:24-34

                3.  The weed of envy.  Genesis 37: 11, 28

          B.  When we have removed the weeds and prepared the soil, we are ready to sow

                the seed.     

                1.  The seed of humility,  Luke 18:9-14, 1 Peter 5:5-7

                2.  The seed of peace,  Philippians 4:6-7, John 14:27

                3.  The seed of love.  Matthew 22:35-39, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

                    

Conclusion

      A.  Because of our humility, we totally depend on and trust God.

     

      B.  Because we know that we can make requests to God, we enjoy peace of mind.

      C.  Because we love, we desire to please God.

      D.  These attitudes produce a garden of gratitude in our hearts