Christian Photographers Community

Oaks of Righteousness

"He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers."
- Psalm 1:3

The leaves on almost all the trees have fallen now. Just a few hardy types are still dangling on the branches, but even these are withering fast. That's why at this time of year Psalm 1 comes alive as we are reminded that, as Christians, our leaf does not wither.

God had a great idea when He chose a tree as a symbol for growing Christians. Just consider: It's a fact that the branches of growing trees not only reach higher, but their roots grow deeper.

It's impossible for a strong tree to have high branches without having deep roots. It would become top-heavy and topple over in the wind. The same is true with Christians.

It's impossible to grow in the Lord without entwining our roots around His Word and deepening our life in His commands.

Other parallels?

A growing tree will always provide shade and comfort for others.

A growing tree takes in light and processes it for food. Such a tree is always able to reproduce itself. Sometimes, the best trees give their life for others as branches are lopped off for firewood or lumber.

"They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor" (Isaiah 61:3).

God employs symbols to point us to truth about Himself and about us. People of faith in Scripture are symbolized as sheep, buildings, fishermen, grain, children, and trees. Study each of these symbols and learn God's lessons.

May my roots grow deep in your Word, Lord, and may my branches grow high.

When winds of adversity come, I then will remain strong.