Scripture

Jeremiah 17:7-8 (New Living Translation)

But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.

They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water.

Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought.

Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.

Consider

We are deeper than our relationships. We get into trouble when we expect our friends and loved ones to satisfy all our needs and give us our sense of worth.

If we are in the habit of putting our hope and confidence in humans like ourselves instead of in God, then our roots will stay shallow. They won’t go deep enough to get the nutrients we need to grow strong and mature, to withstand harsh winds and unexpected changes of season. Only God is wise enough, caring enough, and almighty enough to meet our every need and give us fortitude to withstand whatever comes our way.

We may invest ourselves in human relationships, but we are wise to anchor ourselves more deeply in the trustworthy strength and goodness of God.

Pray

FATHER, sometimes I get lost in the frustrations of everyday relationships. Loved ones fail me; friends disappoint me. When I am tempted to despair, please stretch my roots to find you and anchor myself in you. Infuse me with your love; let me drink from you until I am satisfied. Invigorate me with hope in you so strong that I can forgive others for failing me and release them from expectations only you can satisfy.

Reflect

Psalm 34:9; Philippians 4:19; James 1:5

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How is God stretching your roots right now?