Nature has a way of speaking. If you never take a walk – or even a drive – you are missing out on some amazing lessons.
While visiting in New Mexico, I was enjoying the beautiful morning on a walk through my son’s neighborhood. The homes are spread apart so that there is much vegetation between them. It sits at 6500′ elevation so at times going up and down hills can be grueling, but the views are worth the effort.
In the Spring, the winds there are quite strong. Some gusts at that time reached 40-50mph so imagine my interest being piqued when I passed a tree which, by all appearances seemed dead. Healthy trees may withstand winds of up to 90-100 mph, as I discovered, especially if they are surrounded by other trees. But, this one had only some lower greenery around it. Yet, it stood straight and tall. Dead trees, I learned, can sometimes stand for decades and actually provide shade and home for birds and food for woodpeckers. Still, I marveled at its fortitude. Why doesn’t it simply snap in half when the torrential winds blow? Clearly, it has some hidden strength.
Is it possible to learn something from, of all things, a dead tree? Well, why not? Couldn’t a lesson for us be another of its purposes?
When life is a “breeze” and we seem to slide through without a hitch, we sometimes forget what’s important, or to be grateful. We tend to take things for granted. But, when the strong winds of trial and difficulties blow against us, it’s a different story. Suddenly, we are confronted with what’s important, and we have to dig deep for the strength to endure. Even a tree that looks dead hangs tough against the gusty winds.
When your roots go down deep, you, too, have hidden strength. No wind of adversity can topple you over. Take a lesson from the tree.
“God is our refuge and strength…” (Psalm 46:1)
Another great reminder! Amen! Thank you Teri!
‘Hang tough’….sometimes a challenge, but oftentimes amazing when we recognize His grace – His amazing grace!
Loved the word picture and encouragement! Was just in Colorado with my sister and her family and lamenting how many Aspens look dead after a long drought but maybe there’s still life at the root and maybe they’ll make a recovery! Sometimes we do feel outwardly spent during difficult times! Thx Teri!
Such a great reminder!!! Our hidden strength! Great picture! Thank you again for your words!!!!
Nehemiah 8:10. The joy of the Lord is our strength. (Isaiah 41:10 and Exodus 15:2) We stand strong because the Lord is our foundation. It will not crumble.
Wonderful word picture. Our strength is in our foundation as well. We will stand firm if our foundation is secure
What great imagery! I’m so grateful for teachers and preachers who escorted me to develop deep roots into the One who made me. Thanks for the reminder …. stand strong in adversity.