The huge redwood trees in California are considered the largest living things on earth and the tallest trees in the world. Some of them are over 300 feet high and over 2,500 years old. It’s amazing to think that some of these trees may have already been around when Jesus walked the earth! One would think that trees so large would have a tremendous root system, reaching down hundreds of feet into the earth. However, the redwoods have a very shallow system of roots. So how do they get so big and stand so long? Although it’s a shallow root system; they all intertwine; they are locked to each other. So, when the storms come and the winds blow, the redwoods stand. And it’s because they don’t stand alone, for all the trees support and protect each other.

This is a beautiful image of the unity God calls us to have with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are all different and have different opinions, but God has made us one through His Son, Jesus. He has given us each other to learn from one another and, together, stand strong against the attacks Satan may try to use against us. If we are standing alone, it will be easy to fall under the pressures of this world. However, when we lock arms with each other, pray for one another, and encourage one another, we will stand tall just like the beautiful redwood trees.

“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”²

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for bringing me into your family and allowing me to share life with all the brothers and sisters I have through Jesus. Allow me to live humbly and always be willing to learn from others, and help me be a presence of peace even during conflict. I pray you would allow us to encourage one another so that, together, we can stand strong in You. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. Romans 12:16 (NLT).

2. Psalm 133:1.