Bark Without Bite

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalm 1:3

Did you know there is an estimated 3.04 trillion trees on Earth? Or around 422 for each person on the planet. Trees help the environment. They reduce CO2, create clean oxygen, reduce ozone levels, impede erosion, and among other things give us food and shade.

Under the inspiration of God (2nd Timothy 3:16), David gives a beautiful word picture of what anyone who puts their trust in the Lord can be likened to. The description is of a mature tree with roots nourished in its strength by plenteous rivers of water. And most importantly, bringing forth its fruit in due season. 

The Psalmist is not telling one how to be the tree, but what abiding in the LORD will bring as the tree. They will stand strong in winds of change, not withering in the heat of trial, but soaking up the Living Water they shall enjoy nourishing others with the Truth of God's Word.

Where does one begin? It only comes by abiding in Christ. Apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5). It begins with believing the claims of Messiah Yeshua, followed by trust, then immersion in study and prayer. A fully mature tree will grow in Grace and Truth, standing the tests of time. And in that abiding Grace and Truth many will be glad and the LORD shall receive all the glory. They will rejoice in that its bark will be strong but minus the bite.

Ken