Lesson From a Fallen Tree

This article first appeared in the August 2008 issue of Mature Living. When I originally wrote this I had men like Bro. Charles Welch and Steve Gates in mind as they both courageously battled cancer. Since its first publication, I have observed so many women and men who became even stronger in spirit when in a physically weakened condition and in turn, blessed immeasurably all they encountered.

Several times a week I pass this downed tree that inspired the article
below. It continues to leaf out in the spring.

Down But Not Destroyed

      While feeding the cattle with my father, I spotted a tree trunk that had fallen near his hay shed. It appeared to be dead. I asked my father what had caused the tree to die. He told me to look carefully. I noticed even though the trunk was lying on the ground, from its short limbs a few tiny green leaves were emerging.
      I began to reflect on lessons the unique tree had to teach. Many people encounter situations in their lives that seem to “down” them. A cloud of spiritual inadequacy descends upon these believers who so fervently desire to honor God but experience such difficulty in their endeavor. Yet God delights in taking these seeming failures and chooses to use them beyond what they could imagine. 
      What causes that tree to continue producing leaves in its poor condition? Its unseen roots are strong and deep enough to sustain the tree. Daily study of God’s Word, time spent in prayer, and cultivation of a love relationship with Him will put down spiritual roots. In one sense, the tree has been prepared earlier in its existence for this season of hardship.
     When in a “downed” situation, take heart and know God has a purpose and will use it to glorify Himself. Thank God for His blessings. Grow deep in Him, putting down roots in preparation for whatever may be encountered, knowing and being confident He is always present wherever His beloved ones find themselves.
 2 Corinthians 4:7-9
Now we have this treasure in clay jars, so that this extraordinary power may be from God and not from us.  We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; we are struck down but not destroyed.  
                                                                         Holman Christian Standard Bible