Roots....

The other day a friend and I were sitting at my kitchen table and talking about the world around us - the beauty, our blessings, the good, the bad, and the ugly! Just outside the patio doors, on the other side of the deck is a HUGE tree - and I mean HUGE!!!! It has grown so much since we have lived in this house. The trunk is too large to get my arms around and yet the branches are "spindly" - every time there is any amount of wind the lawn and deck are covered with leaves and branches from this tree. Here is a picture I took a couple of years ago ....

We discussed how this tree "stood" firm" during the wild winds of Hurricane Irene last weekend.... and she said, "It must have a good root system". Right away I was reminded of the Scriptrues which speak of OUR root system.... being grounded deep in HIM! Without a "good root system" we will flounder when troubles come our way! What is our "root system"? It is our faith - our belief in our God who sustains and protects and keeps us safe.These words were written by Paul as he worte to the church in Ephesus - I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your heart as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:16-17 As Christians, we must have a "good root system - just like that huge tree outside my window! The roots of that tree draw nourishment from the soil around it - the farther they reach out the more nourishment they find and the better hold they have on the ground around them. How like us! It is only when we are grounded in Him with our roots going deep, gaining nourishment for our souls, that we will be able to stand strong - day by day - and that occurs only thru the empowerment of the Holy Spirt who resides in our hearts!
Dear Ones, as Paul prayed for the Ephesians, I pray for you - for the Creator of all to empower you through the Holy Spirit to grow deep in Him, AND for you to to have the power to understand how wide and long and high and deep HIS love is for you! Blessings on you!

Resting in HIM - Ruthie