Having always been fascinated by sunflowers, I decided to grow one for the first time several years ago. Before planting one, I researched to learn as much as possible about the flower, and discovered sunflowers and people have quite a bit in common:

• Sunflowers have an extensive root system. Sunflowers grow their roots deep and wide to help them remain standing tall in the strong winds. Their deep roots also help them to withstand times of drought. “The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy.  But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word.” (Matthew 13: 20-21 NLT). Without deep roots, we will not develop persevering faith.
• The soil makes a difference. Sunflowers grow best in rich soil so they do not easily uproot. “The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts.” (Matthew 13: 19 NLT). We need to be ever growing in God’s Word, discerning and applying His truth to our lives.
  
• Sunflowers would benefit from several good doses of fertilizer. “The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”  (Matthew 13: 23, NIV). Faithful obedience and tending to our hearts will will yield healthy growth.
  

The most interesting fact about sunflowers is they grow best facing the sun. The flower itself will actually lift its “face” up into the sun. Perhaps this a lesson we all should learn …

“I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”   (Psalm 121: 1-2 NIV).