For quite some time, I have pondered over what it actually means to be a “tree planted by the water”. The first thing I asked myself is why trees normally gravitate to the water (river, stream, or lake). Trees that are planted by the water have a regular supply of nourishment and refreshment. They can be easily sustained and thrive. Being planted by the water is to have a regular supply of “life.” The tree will grow strong and sturdy because they will have a strong root system. It will constantly bear fruit. A well-watered tree can provide shade and rest to anyone who needs it.
Psalms 1:1-3 says: “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” (NIV)
When we meditate on God’s Word, we will be like the tree who receives a constant “supply of nourishment and refreshment.” God’s Word is our water of life which keeps us firmly rooted and grounded in the teachings of Jesus and His wonderful promises. When we neglect reading His Word, we will wither and die from the lack of living water that He provides.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 says: “But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out 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.” (NIV)
I am reminded of the song, “I Shall Not Be Moved”, an African American spiritual, which tells us that if we are like a tree planted by the waters and anchored in Jesus, we will have total confidence in Him to see us through any trial or heavy burden that may be thrown our way because we will have a strong and sturdy “root system” that will not rot or decay or crumble when the winds or storms try to knock us down. We will have a strong foundation in Jesus Christ–our Rock, our fortress, and deliverer.
May the Lord help us continue to trust, believe, and anchor ourselves in His powerful love.
Blessings,
Yvonne
Suggested Reading: “What Happens When Women Say Yes to God and Walk in Faith” by Lysa Terkeurst; “Focus: How One Word A Week Will Transform Your Life” by Cleere Cherry Reaves