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
