Will we ever get over succumbing to the devil’s notion that a tree planted by the river should be an object of pity? That a scrub bush has a much better handle on life?
The devil wants us to believe he can supply all we need to deal with life itself if we will only bow down and worship him. That’s nonsense! Look at the lives of scrub bushes and pity them, for they have no roots and no river, no leaves when the heat comes, and no fruit. What’s so beautiful about that?
The simple principles are as follows. First ask yourself, “Do I possess the Spirit?” If not, or if you are unsure, make sure. Pray, “Please, God, will you forgive my sin and invade my life?” Then thank Him for answering your prayer. Second, having made sure of His Spirit in your life, ask yourself, “Do I know anything of living in the power of these spiritual truths?” If not, examine your roots. Next, spend time deciding which river you are placing your roots in. Change the situation if need be.
Think about the “sap” of Scripture. Does it fill your branches? What will you do about that if the answer is no? Will you purchase a good study Bible, sign up for a Bible course, buy some teaching tapes, or join a Bible study? Ask God to show you your tree as He sees it.
Is there any fruit on your tree? Are your branches laden with it, or is there a lone orange hanging on a twig? Read Gal. 5:22-23. Pray about this description of the fruit of the Spirit. Finally, as you put out your roots in the direction of the river, let them down into its depths. Then leave them there, and see what God will grow in your life and show in your life.
In Christ,
Jill Briscoe
And, like a tree planted by water, we must examine our roots in faith...Have you tended to your soul lately? Jesus gives us the perfect example of setting healthy rhythms for our lives–even when we are being pulled in countless directions. In the midst of a very busy life, He always found ways to tend to His soul. And so should we.
These devotions on faith are here to help you on your journey to take that first step in Christian faith and to continue growing in your faith.