Like A Tree! (3 of 3)

Yesterday we considered the idea of our life being PURPOSELY planted. Let us read the first three verses of that psalm again and consider further the PURPOSE the text brings into view.

“(1) BLESSED IS THE MAN who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; (2) but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. (3) HE IS LIKE A TREE planted by streams of water THAT YIELDS ITS FRUIT IN ITS SEASON, AND ITS LEAF DOES NOT WITHER. IN ALL THAT HE DOES, HE PROSPERS.” ( Psalm 1:1-3 ESV)

The tree was PURPOSELY planted because the LIFE of the tree was to have PURPOSE. That LIFE was to be made evident by providing, not useless chaff ( Psalm 1:4), but something USEFUL; being fruitful, having leaves that did not wither, but a LIFE prospering in all that was associated with it. The fruit of a tree can do two things. It can be used to reproduce more trees for more fruit, as well as providing fruit that brings nourishment to the lives of others. The leaves help with the purification of air. And the tree itself can be a needed shelter offering shade from the heat of the day.

Can we see our individual lives fulfilling these same PURPOSES under the direction of God? Though it is God Who brings the increase, as Christians we play a role in making other Christians by bringing them to Christ. (note 1 Corinthians 3:6-7) The fruit of our LIFE can also bring sweet benefit to those around us. The actions (leaves) of our LIFE can also bring refreshment to others. And when the heat of the day is felt, our standing in trusting faith in God can help provide some needed shelter for those who are still searching.

We should remember what the destiny of an unfruitful tree is. (note Luke 13:6-9. Also John 15:6) We had an apple tree that just didn’t produce like we expected. We trimmed. We sprayed. We gave it more time. This year it met the fate of the chainsaw and became firewood for a friend of ours. This Spring, it will feel the axe against its root.

We should also bear in mind how we need to be open to the pruning out of our LIFE that which might hinder our fruitfulness. With God as our gardener, though the pruning may be painful at times, we can trust Him with the pruners. ( John 15:2)

May we not lose sight of the godly PURPOSE of our LIFE. Our LIFE, PLANTED in Christ, can be a living, thriving plant, pruned by God to fulfill the PURPOSE He has in mind for our LIFE -- to “bear much fruit” revealing we are the Lord’s disciples. ( John 15:8)

Have a great day LIVING OUT GOD’S PURPOSES IN LIFE!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Christian Behavior