My husband and I recently moved to South Texas to live and work on a ranch, and I absolutely love it. I never thought I would say that about South Texas. I grew up in the Texas Hill Country, where there are oak trees, green grass, rolling hills, and beautiful spring flowers.
South Texas is very different. Here, it seems like everything has thorns—the trees, the cactus, the bushes, and even some of the flowers.
I have always loved God’s creation. Everywhere I look, I see evidence of the Creator. Because of that, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised that I have found beauty here among the thorns.
Right now the acacia trees are blooming (see above picture), and there is another plant here called blackbrush acacia that is blooming too. The scent in the air is sweet and beautiful. Thistles are blooming, along with many other wildflowers. Wildlife is everywhere—birds, deer, and all sorts of creatures that bring the land to life.
Standing out here and taking it all in reminded me of something: life is a lot like South Texas. There are plenty of thorns, but there is also beauty.
Life in this world has its share of thorns. Your thorns may be financial struggles, poor health, family problems, job difficulties, or deep disappointments. But if you look closely, you will also find beauty.
Scripture reminds us in Song of Solomon 2:2:
“Like a lily among thorns is my darling among the maidens.”
This verse symbolizes purity and grace. It also reflects Christ’s love for His church—standing pure and beloved in the midst of a harsh and sinful world, much like a lily surrounded by thorns.
And we have a Savior who understands thorns more than anyone.
Jesus wore a crown of thorns and gave His life on the cross so that we might have eternal life.
There is no greater beauty than that.
Even in the midst of life’s hardships, God’s goodness, grace, and love can still be found.
Sometimes, the most beautiful things grow right in the middle of the thorns.
Reflection Questions:
- What “thorns” are you experiencing in your life right now?
- Can you identify moments of beauty or blessing even in the middle of those struggles?
- How does remembering Christ’s sacrifice change the way you view your hardships?
Pray:
Lord,
Thank You that even in the midst of life’s thorns, Your beauty and grace are still present. Help me to look beyond my struggles and see the ways You are working in my life. Remind me that Jesus endured the crown of thorns so that I might have eternal life and hope. Give me eyes to see the beauty You place in every season.
Amen.
If this devotional encouraged you today, share it with someone who may be walking through a season of thorns. Sometimes a simple reminder of God’s beauty and grace can bring hope to a weary heart.
I have a thorn in my heart every time I see people following the gospel, advice, life experience like this when we share them on social media. I think about people who can’t afford buying a smartphone. If hurts me so much. I am blessed to have across the message about thorns of this life.
God bless you my sister thanks for sharing.
I understand Pastor. We each have a platform though. Some through social media, others like yourself through your words in your ministry; some through work relationships. We just continue to share the way God has given us. God bless you Pastor!