I recently watched this super cool video about the giant water lily and its growth, & of course I had to connect it to the human experience. I really can't help myself.

In its growth stage, the giant water lily legit fights its way upward, using one of its buds like a club to clear space and push through anything in its territory. It basically swings on anything in its way lol! Although it seems a bit aggressive, it’s still a slow, determined process, claiming space before it unfurls its massive leaves. In essence, it basically gives a warning to what's on the surface, clearing the way before it comes through and crushes everything in its path. The leaves on the surface that didn't get the memo will die once the lily fully takes up space. (plz watch the short video below).

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So the water lily knows how to take up space where it’s planted, yet many of us don't?😗 As we grow into our purpose, it's natural that certain things must be cleared in the process—old habits, fears, even relationships. It's all part of making room for what God is cultivating within us.

In the video, note that the lily didn't rush to "big up itself".  Its 'bud' prepared the way, and only then it could stretch out and take its place. Amen? In the same way that John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, and in the same that Jesus made a way for us... *smiles to self*.. Jesus is like our 'bud' who prepared the way, and now its on us to show up, even if it's uncomfortable to those around us.

The giant water lily is a reminder to trust the process of preparation. The waiting period is far from passive; it’s a time of unseen work beneath the surface, where roots are strengthened and direction is set. This mirrors the essence of prayer. In prayer, while we may feel still, there’s action taking place within us and outside of us. God is preparing our hearts, clearing away what hinders us, and readying us for what’s to come. Preparation also looks like strengthening our mental and physical health. The right timing brings growth that is steady and unshakeable.

What needs to be cleared so that you can expand as God intends? & how do you prepare in the waiting period? You gotta stay readyy (no Jhene Aiko).

• Seasons of Waiting Are Divine Preparation: Just as the lily’s slow rise allows it to flourish, our seasons of stillness are often God’s way of strengthening us for what's ahead.
• Protection and Purpose: God’s protective covering during difficult seasons readies us for when we need to step into the light with strength.
• Don’t Rush What’s Sacred: Growth isn’t a race; rushing can lead to shallow roots. Trust the divine timing, even when it feels slow.

Self-Reflection Prompts

1. ^{What distractions or attachments are hindering your growth?}
2. ^{Are you allowing God’s protection to shape you in the waiting, or are you rushing ahead?}
3. ^{How are you preparing yourself during seasons of stillness for what lies ahead?}
4. ^{Are you making room for God’s new light, or are you clinging to what’s familiar but restrictive?}