What is the significance of a tree planted by water?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: An artist friend of mine gave me one of his paintings of a tree growing by the water and added a Bible verse, Psalm 1:3. We had been talking about growing spiritually and I guess this is what prompted his lovely gift to me. What is the significance of a tree planted by water? – P.W.
A: It is no accident that the Bible speaks of trees, even urging us to grow spiritual roots that are deep and strong. Trees grow from a small seed and spiritual life also begins with a seed – the seed of God’s Word planted in the soil of our souls that eventually sprouts and becomes a new seedling when we are born again. Just as God implants the life cell in the tiny seed that produces the mighty oak, He implants His divine life in the hearts of people who earnestly seek Him through Christ. His Word waters the seed, producing life abundantly.
We are not meant to remain spiritual seedlings, weak and vulnerable to every temptation, doubt, falsehood, or fear. God’s will is for us to grow strong in our faith and become mature, grounded in the truth of His Word, and firmly committed to doing His will (see 1 Peter 2:2).
When we give our life to Christ, we are taking the essential first step – but it is only the first step. God’s will is for us to become spiritually mature, growing stronger in our relationship to Christ and our service for Him. Conversion is the work of an instant; spiritual maturity is the work of a lifetime. Word studies from the Bible will teach us many things about ourselves, others, and most certainly the Lord Jesus. “He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season” (Psalm 1:3, NKJV)
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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