Nurturing Our Faith
"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."1
Today's verse expresses a truth that resonates deeply with all of us: "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."
Trees grow from small seeds, extending their branches into the sky. In a way, believers are like trees. Our faith in the Lord is like a seed planted in fertile soil. It takes root and begins to sprout, spreading into the heavens. Then, as we draw strength and nourishment from the Creator, our hope in Him matures, bearing good fruit that nourishes and satisfies our hearts.
By abiding in the Lord, He protects us during life's trials and becomes our refuge. He alone sustains us with the fruit of joy, peace, and gladness, by nourishing our spirits and renewing our strength.
In order for our hope in God to grow strong, it needs to be watered with prayer, worship, and trust. Then we will become like rooted, firm trees, radiating God's glory and bearing the fruit of His Spirit. As Isaiah 61:3 (NLT) says, "In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory."
Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that only in you can we be more than conquerors. Thank You that only You sustain us in difficult times and even in those moments, we can experience joy, peace and gladness. Thank you that every day you renew our strength and give us a perspective full of hope. In Jesus' name, Amen.
1. Proverbs 13:12 (NIV).
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.