Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room
December 21, 2021
Read Ephesians 3:14-21
14 This is why I kneel before the Father. 15 Every ethnic group in heaven or on earth is recognized by him. 16 I ask that he will strengthen you in your inner selves from the riches of his glory through the Spirit. 17 I ask that Christ will live in your hearts through faith. As a result of having strong roots in love, 18 I ask that you’ll have the power to grasp love’s width and length, height and depth, together with all believers. 19 I ask that you’ll know the love of Christ that is beyond knowledge so that you will be filled entirely with the fullness of God. 20 Glory to God, who is able to do far beyond all that we could ask or imagine by his power at work within us; 21 glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus for all generations, forever and always. Amen.
Good Morning! Rejoice! Rejoice! Again I say rejoice!
Knowing our roots is very important. Think of the root systems of various trees. Some have shallow root systems that give little support during strong winds or heavy gains. I remember the number of pecan trees that were toppled around south side Virginia during Hurricane Isabel. These trees that produced wonderful crops of pecans do not spend enough time and energy on their development of roots, so when it came time to stand up to the weather extremes, the trees came down.
In contrast, there are trees like the white oak that spend tremendous time and energy build their root system. They are slower to grow tall and produce fruit, but they can withstand the ravages of wind and rain and will live for 200 or more years.
Throughout our lives, we will be subjected to challenges. Those who have spent time developing their roots systems of family and of God will endure. We must always remember to whom we belong. We develop roots through building relationships, through studying the Word, and through conversations with God, with our families, and with the community of faith.
When we devote time and energy to establishing theses roots, we will have the strength to withstand even the strongest storms. God’s love and mercy will protect us because we have deep, strong roots in our faith.
I think about new Christians who are so anxious to make up lost time and want to skip ahead and be fruitful. It’s wonderful to produce wonderful fruitl like the pecan trees, but don’t shortchange the time to develop your foundation of roots. When we are rooted in our faith, nothing can harm us. We will be standing tall for generations to come.
Creator God, Thank You for loving us. Help us develop roots so that we can withstand the challenges we are called to face. Thank You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: When I am rooted in Christ’s love, I can feel at home anywhere.
Spend time tending your roots! Pastor Liz
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