Spiritual Roots

"Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in [union with] Him [reflecting His character in the things you do and say—living lives that lead others away from sin], having been deeply rooted [in Him] and now being continually built up in Him and [becoming increasingly more] established in your faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing in it with gratitude" (Col. 2:6-7, Amp).

As I was building a flowerbed in a new spot, digging around in the dirt, removing weeds, and designing the shape, I was overcome with tree roots from a nearby tree. The roots were unbearably deep, thick, and stretched out everywhere in my newly designated, future flowerbed! I recalled a biology lesson that there are three main functions of roots: to anchor the plant/tree firmly in place, to absorb the necessary water and nutrients from the soil (reaching and spreading when and wherever necessary to obtain these), and to hold the soil in place to prevent erosion. During my struggle to remove some of the roots and complete my task, I began to think about spiritual roots and the importance of being rooted deeply in Christ.

The roots soon began to illustrate to me that our roots in Christ must grow deeply, and we must stay attached to the Vine. Our roots must be deep enough to: anchor us firmly in Christ so we will not sway or fall; they must reach and spread out to absorb the necessary spiritual nourishment from His word; practice daily praise and worship; and be diligent in our meditation and prayer throughout each day. When you deepen your relationship with Christ your roots become stronger and more firmly anchored in Him.

Grow in relationship with Abba God:

*Being deeply rooted=committed=a depth of faith

*Sow seeds---cultivate---grow---reap

As you thrive in Christ more each day, pay attention to God's season of Grace in your life. Allow this to be a special time to grow, mature, and bear fruit. Make time to go to church, pray, meditate and study upon His word. Leave the rest to God, our good and heavenly Gardner.

"May He grant you out of the riches of His glory, to be strengthened and spiritually energized with power through His Spirit in your inner self, [indwelling your innermost being and personality], so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through your faith. And may you, having been [deeply] rooted and [securely] grounded in love" (Eph. 3:16-17, Amp).

Abba, Father, show us new insight into Your word. May we allow Your word to grow and become deeply rooted in our hearts. Thank You for Jesus the true Gardner of our souls. May we remain in You and continue to deepen our roots to bear fruit for You. In Christ, Amen.