Deep Roots

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends outs its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8 NIV

I read this verse a few days ago, and it just won’t leave my mind. It is packed with truths for us to uncover! As the passage opens, we find that a blessing is given to the one who trusts in the LORD! There are so many places that we can put our trust: money, relationships, social status, careers, our future. But every single one of them will fail us at some point. But the Lord, well, he will never fail us! (1 Chronicles 28:20)

If we put our trust in the Lord, this verse tells us we are like a tree planted near water that sends out its roots by the stream. We have a weeping willow tree in our backyard. When we planted it my husband was very thoughtful about where to plant this tree. It’s root system can be quite invasive. The roots of such trees are known to tear up concrete sidewalks, mess with drainage systems, and entangle themselves in any other obstacle that crosses its path. This type of tree is desperate for water, and nothing will stop it from finding a water supply! When this tree finds the water supply, it can then go about living. If fresh rain doesn’t come, there is still a water source available. The leaves remain green because the massive root system has absorbed and stored water to be used as needed. The tree is able to bear fruit because it is well nourished. The tree thrives because it is connected to a fresh, steady supply of water.

This is a comparison to us. We can be like this willow, sending out roots during the good times, in the times of plenty. We do this by delving into the scriptures, memorizing, discussing, listening, and absorbing all that we can about God. We are told in Jeremiah 29:13...

“When you come looking for me, you’ll find me. “Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I’ll make sure you won’t be disappointed.” God’s Decree.

We have to develop a serious root system in Christ so that we can stay strong in the storms of life. In a single second a storm can brew up in our lives leaving us bending and being tossed by the wind. But if our root system is broad and deep, we can bend and be tossed, but we will remain steadfast. Our witness in the storm can be shelter and encouragement for those who are being uprooted as the storm rages. 

Let me ask you this today? What is your root system like?

Are you deep in the Lord and rooted in his truths?

Are your roots broad and reaching a constant supply of Jesus, the living water?

OR

Are you shallow and barely surviving in the good times? 

Do you fear the storm?

In order to get a deep root system, you have to get serious! Find an accountability partner, make time for daily quiet time to listen and talk to the Lord, and get involved with other Christians. Today is the day! Don’t delay for you hear him calling!