Growing in tough places

Growing in tough places. I am surprised by what I have discovered in some tough places. 

This morning I saw a tiny tomato plant growing in the parking lot of Panera. This solitary plant is growing next to a light post surrounded by asphalt.  In spite of a less than ideal growing condition, this little plant has one itsy bitsy tomato.  Not only is it growing, it is bearing fruit.

In the midst of a myriad of challenges, I thank God that we can grow in tough places. It is our character that grows.

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know who dearly God loves us because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our heart with his love.”

Romans 5: 3_5 (NLT)