“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green,” Psalm 92:12-14 (NIV)
Cruising down I-95, I absolutely love the moment when I see palm trees swaying in the breeze. It’s my cue – the beach and Florida warm weather are getting closer. Despite how tired I am of driving, I’m always mesmerized by the view. Majestic, towering trees welcoming me to my fave place.
What makes those trees thrive? Lots of water, probably the reason why palm trees grow in abundance near the ocean.
What makes us thrive? “The closer our hearts, minds and souls are connected to God, the deeper our relationship grows. Relationship + obedience nourishes our souls in abundance. Living in sync with God’s will allows us to flourish – totally mesmerized by His work in us.
Psalm 92 beautifully illustrates how the righteous (doing life in obedience to God) not only flourish but grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Frequently mentioned in scripture, cedar trees were large, aromatic trees growing in abundance in Palestine. Valued for its durability, cedar was used to build the temple and the palaces of David and Solomon.
Sweet friends if we are growing like a cedar, we will be:
A sweet fragrance of God’s love
Able to withstand wear, pressure or damage
Stable – exhibiting enduring faith
Existing for a long time (eternity)
Wow, I never knew being like trees (palm and cedar) could be so appealing, but it is to God. And it all happens when we are planted firmly in our faith. Drawing strength and guidance from God’s word. Aligning our will with His. Seeking to draw close to the source of everything we need. And the best part, verse 14 reminds us that we will still bear fruit in old age – fresh and flourishing. Now if that doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what will.
Keeping it real here – aging isn’t exactly what I’m looking forward to – wrinkles, aches and pains. We can often discount the value of a life lived well, but God doesn’t. He knows that despite our calendar age, those who maintain connection with Him will bear an abundance of fresh fruit. No sitting on the sidelines allowed sisters, we are destined to flourish on this earth from our first breath to our last. And the benefit of that ever growing, flourishing life is the sweetest reality that we are glorifying our God.
Oswald Chambers states it well, “A life of intimacy with God is characterized by joy.” Vibrant and passionately devoted to our God all of our days – can’t think of a better way to live.
“Father, I love the plans You have for each of us to flourish and grow all the days of our life. Help us to stay connected to You and walk faithfully in obedience.”
For His Glory
Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life
trbccoffeebreak 
Leave a Reply