Like a Tree

That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not whither— whatever they do prospers. —Psalm 1:3, NIV

I have always enjoyed nature. As a teenager, I would look out the car or bus window at the scenery passing by and try to retain the view in my mind.

One thing I noticed, and that still amazes me, was the wide variety of trees. I also enjoyed drawing them with their large leaves, like the banana trees, or with small, colorful autumn leaves, like the aspens. The Bible uses trees as an ageless object lesson.

Trees remind us of God’s special design for each one.

We are all unique—no two are alike. We all have different needs and grow best in different conditions. Yet we all have the potential for growth.

Trees that receive adequate water, light, and food prosper and produce fruits. God cares for our needs so we may grow. He can abundantly provide for us.

Our part? To choose to have our “roots” soaking daily in the “living water” of God’s Word, absorbing the “light” of the world, and receiving the “food” that is our source of strength, Jesus Christ, the “Bread” of Life. Trees also remind us of God’s character and our calling. Trees are generous; they give and provide for others according to their uniqueness.

They provide shelter and shade for living creatures, flowers for insects and birds, fragrance, sap, and nourishing fruits to sustain life and be enjoyed.

Trees are a visual reminder of God’s generous and loving character.

Like trees, we are called to live a generous life, serving others and bearing the fruit we were created to bear. Each one has a God-given purpose that fits perfectly in His plan of salvation. Isaiah describes practical aspects of the good news of salvation and says we are to be “called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified” (Isaiah 61:3, NKJV). God delights in us and looks forward to being our delight. “That person”—the one who delights in the word of God and meditates day and night in it— is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers (Psalm 1:3, NIV). Next time you see a tree, remember God’s loving character and pray for God to transform you. May we all bear fruit for His glory.

Nilde Itin