The Strong Fruitful Tree

By Aneta Dodd

But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. (Psalm 1:2-3)

My favorite vacation spot is a cabin located in the hills of Townsend, TN. I love the cool breeze offered there, the privacy given by the trees and the calming effect of the water as it travels over the stones and the rocks below. As I read this passage, I am transported back to that spot.

When we find delight in God’s Word and meditate on His will day and night, God compares us to a tree planted near the water. A tree grows tall and straight towards the sunlight. As we study God’s word, our actions and thoughts will point to the "Sonlight". Others will know God’s great love and learn of Heaven because of the direction we choose to travel.

As we study God’s word and meditate on it we will begin to bear fruit. We read of this fruit in Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law". Just as we enjoy a big, juicy peach from a peach tree. As we display the fruits listed above, we begin to bless others around us. We may also help to feed those who are still "babes" in Christ.

Many times we may become discouraged or tired in this sinful world we are living, however, God promises us that if we will remain in Him, our "leaves will not wither". Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. (2 Corinthians 4:16)

On a hot summers day outside, there is nothing more refreshing than to sit under a large shade tree and absorb the gentle breeze that blows there! When we renew our spirits day by day, we can provide that wonderful shade for others who are yearning to find a little relief.

Storms may arise over the land and may succeed in blowing down a few trees. However, God tells us a tree growing by the side of the river has strength to withstand these storms (whatever it does shall prosper). We gain our strength from the Lord: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9) The Psalmist speaks of God’s strength throughout the book of Psalms. When we continue to "drink from the water of life", we are able to gain our strength from God when the storms blow us over!

I would like to encourage each of you to find time in the next few days to visit a stream or river near your home, sit under a large tree planted there and meditate on this passage. Spend a little quiet time with your Lord there and find new strength to carry you through this next week. Develop a schedule to study and meditate on God’s Word daily. It may only be a few verses read and a prayer uttered before beginning your day or a time of meditation during your lunch break or a family time of reading scripture each evening. If we purpose in our hearts to make the Lord our priority, we will be able to set aside a time each day to study His word.