Like A Tree by Streams of Water

He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither…

                                                           Psalm l:1-3

The stability and beauty of a tree firmly planted by a stream is an encouraging analogy to me, especially in these unsettling and uncertain times of a worldwide pandemic. I think of the roots that go down deep into the earth and spread out to reach the source of nutrients in the soil and water.  I am amazed at trees growing on steep banks by a stream with most of the root system exposed.  It seems impossible that the tree could still be standing.  The years of wind and rain and erosion have taken their toll, but the tree is still standing firm.

The psalmist gives this description of one whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.  This stability and strength come from a relationship with the Lord, one that grows deeper as we spend time in His Word, getting to know Him, understanding His will for our life, and living in obedience to Him. Scripture tells us that He is the vine, we are the branches.  If we abide in Him, we will bear much fruit (John l5:5).  We will be able to stand firm and bear fruit even during the trials and difficult circumstances that are sure to come. 

  Psalm l07 gives the opposite picture.  It speaks of those who wandered in the wilderness in a desert region…they were hungry and thirsty; their soul fainted within them…There were those who dwelt in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in misery and chains, because they had rebelled against the words of God.

             We clearly have a choice — We can delight in the law of God or we can ignore Him, or even rebel against Him.  We can grow stronger in our relationship with Him through spending time with Him in prayer and being in His Word, or we can give in to the lies of Satan, our enemy who seeks to destroy us. During this time of the pandemic, it is especially important to stay connected to other believers so we can encourage each other in our walk with God and to be able to strengthen others who are struggling with fear and uncertain circumstances.

            We need to mature and grow strong in our relationship with God so we recognize the lies of our enemy and refuse to stray from the path of truth.  We need to be willing to listen to the still, small voice of God saying, This is the way, walk in it (Isaiah 30:21).  That path will lead to life as God intended us to live — like a tree firmly planted by a stream.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

We can ask ourselves these questions:  Am I like the tree firmly planted by streams of water?  Or am I wandering aimlessly in the desert living in fear and uncertainty?

What choices do I need to make to cause my “roots” to be firmly planted by the life-giving stream?

Pray and ask God if there is someone He wants you to encourage to grow stronger in the Lord?

Read Psalm 1:3 again and personalize it: I will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither…