“…take root downward and bear fruit upward” Isaiah 37:31
I enjoyed climbing trees when I was young! I played in the exposed roots of trees and rested under many of them while eating the fruit they produced. A favorite was the apple tree because it was easy to climb, and I loved eating green apples. I normally gave no thought to the roots but just enjoyed the visible portions and all the ways I could play in them.
I think God must like trees as well. The Bible begins with two trees as the symbolism of obedience to God and carries the theme to the Crucifixion of Jesus on a tree as a gift of His obedience. In Revelation 22:14, we read,
“Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates.”
The Bible is full of references comparing our spiritual journey to trees.
The metaphor of root and fruit is fitting for us as Christians. The shallow-rooted Christian can be easily uprooted, but when we embrace the principle that roots must be established before fruit can be borne upward, we grow deeper in the process of sanctification. (being set apart for God and His good works)
Let me quickly remind you of the function of roots. They anchor the tree in nutrient-rich soil and absorb water and minerals that are vital in the manufacture of food and growth regulators. Most trees and plants have a central taproot that branches off into finer roots and culminates in an abundance of what is called “root hairs.” This system allows the plant to encounter a tremendous volume of life-giving nourishment. Generally, the root system will grow down as deep as the height of the tree and as wide as the crown or branches. For example, a tree 30 feet tall and 30 feet wide will have a root system with those same proportions. That unseen portion is vital for the health of the entire plant. Adding fertilizer and watering it well will help to build up the plant for faster growth. We tend to call this. “feeding the plant.”
Do you know that most fruit trees do not bear fruit for at least two years and some varieties take up to 8 years after they are planted? What is happening during this time before the fruit is seen? The tree is growing strong roots and sturdy branches. So, a good root must be established before the fruit can be produced. The fruit will naturally follow when the tree becomes well-grounded.
Isn’t it the same with us? If we desire to bear good fruit – spiritual fruit – we must feed the roots and wait for the fruit to follow in the proper season.
How do we do that? Simply spending time with the Lord and in His Word. The well-fed roots will literally lay the groundwork for the fruit harvest. This is true for the plant kingdom, and it is also true of our spiritual life.
The mistake we often make is attending to the roots without thought of the fruit, or we believe the fruit we bear is all that is important. Rather than this “either/ or” approach, it is essential that you and I embrace a “both/and” spirituality.
We must be women who, like the remnant of Judah, take root below. In these times of cultural change and division, when society seems to be fracturing and splintering in countless ways, we need to be rooted firmly. We must seek to find our rest, identity, and hope in the Lord so that we can stand firm when storms come our way. Rootedness in Christ is needed for when times are tough, and we are hard-pressed, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or fear.
For a while, we may not see much happening, and it can be discouraging and excruciating, waiting for the fruit to grow. The fruit will come because that is what the entire tree is designed to do – bring forth fruit. When our minds and hearts become “fixed” on Jesus, and the power of the Holy Spirit begins transforming us on the inside, it is only a matter of time before the fruit of the Spirit will overflow in our lives. This looks like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
The benefits and power we receive from spending time with Jesus Christ can only be maintained as we commit to a regular routine of Bible study and prayer. If we are to be a strong witness for Christ, maintaining our roots will give us the strength and fortitude needed to live as light in the darkness, bringing hope where there is despair, love where there is hatred, and joy where there is sorrow.
Remember that God is glorified when we bear much fruit, as Jesus Himself said:
“By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.” (John 15:8).
“…the root of the righteous yield fruit.” (Proverbs 12:12b).
“…if the root is holy, so are the branches.” (Romans 11:16b).
Let us take root downward and bear fruit upward every day!
My Prayer: “Dear Lord Jesus, thank you that I know whatever I am asked to face today, You are with me, and I can trust You with the outcome. Help me to grow in wisdom through the study of Your words. My desire is to produce good fruit because I am rooted in the truth of Your saving grace. In the name of Jesus, Amen.”
Rebekah Marsh
Lean into Jesus Ministries
#rebekahmarshblogs