‘Do I Look Bothered?’

Jeremiah 17: verse 7 & 8

“But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and has made the Lord his hope and confidence. He is like a tree planted along a riverbank, with its roots reaching deep into the water – a tree not bothered by the heat nor worried by long months of drought. Its leaves stay green and it goes right on producing all its luscious fruit.”

Observation

It seems to be the best scenario. A seed planted in the right position in the first place, near a riverbank where all the nutrients that is needed for a long healthy growth. Obviously the season of the year cause the riverbank to be lush and green in the spring after a period of winter time where all is dormant. Then along comes summer and the sun can help the seed grow into the tree it was meant to be and bear fruit.

If it wasn’t for the river the seed that is meant to grow may be stunted and even die. No fruit to bear and nothing to show for its effort of existence.

Application

That’s where I want to be. Like a tree planted as a seed along a riverbank. My seed I choose to be planted right along God’s river – it’s called the river of life – of course that’s what you would call it! All the nutrients I need to keep me going in life is right here along God’s riverbank. I choose to be planted here – I like it! My roots are established deep in God and I can only grow stronger each day. I am confident I have made the right decision to be planted here.

When tough times come, I draw my strength from what I already know and what I’ve learnt from God’s teachings. The roots are not seen on the surface but I choose to keep my hope in God and not be moved by what may come my way.

Prayer

Thank you Lord that my confidence and hope is in you. Thank you that there is space on your riverbank for me. There is also space for others who choose to be planted too.

I know I can only but grow as I stay and be nurtured by all that you have to offer.

When tough times come, may I have the look on my face of . . . . . . . . ‘Do I look bothered?’

Terry Bugden