Knots

"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
Psalm 1:1-3

I can't tell you how many times I have questioned my ability to be firmly planted. The older I get, the more I have learned to appreciate the symbolism of a firmly planted tree. My tree has been planted in God's hands and His living water is my supply.

(c) photobucket.com

A tree is a beautiful creation. Tree roots provide stability for soil. Leaves are constantly making oxygen out of carbon dioxide. The wood is used for almost everything imaginable.

The trunk of a tree is the stability and strength of a tree. The vascular system is perfectly designed to defy gravity and bring water from the roots to the leaves. The trunk cannot survive without the branches, and the branches cannot survive without the leaves. The dependency of the trunk on the branch and the branch on the trunk leaves a knot. A knot is a sign of growth. The branch born will always leave a mark on the trunk. When polished by a craftsman these knots give character to an ordinary piece of wood.

I have to believe each stop and interaction along this journey called life is another branch on my tree. I am forever changed because of the places, people, and events in my life. My life is far more beautiful because of the knots created by the branches of change and growth.

(c) Old Globe Wood

I have been weary lately. Growth is exhausting. God knows this and in His grace and mercy, provided me the perfect encouragement through worship, scripture, friends, and prayer.

"All treasures of wisdom and things to be known
Are hidden inside Your hand
And in this fortunate turn of events
You ask me to be Your friend
You ask me to be Your friend
And You, You are my first
You are my last
You are my future and my past."Future/Past - John Mark McMillan

"...the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength..."
2 Timothy 4:17

I don't know who, what, or where will provide the next knot in my trunk. I am certain God does know and that is enough for me.

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Colossians 3:15-17