He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:3 ESV

Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is in the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV

Jeremiah was God’s prophet lamenting over Israel and Judah. He warned of the coming destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of God’s people because of their sin and idolatry. Jeremiah called the people to repent and come back to their God. He gave this lovely image of God’s people trusting and living close to Him. They would be like trees planted by streams, their lives rooted in God, watered and nourished.

I personally love this image because one of my favorite things is walking the spring fed creeks and streams on the property. The dogs play in the water, the rhododendrons along the way give shade, and the trees near the water are thriving.

It also makes me think of the story of the Samaritan woman at the well. Jesus asks for a drink of water and then tells her that He is the Messiah and can give her living water so that she will not thirst.

When we stay near the Lord, we too can have this living water. We will be “watered and nourished” in His Word and in His presence. We will not wilt when the troubles of life come our way. We will be able to stand strong, growing and maturing in our faith, and continuing to bear fruit, giving glory to the Lord.

This week let’s spend some time in God’s word and in His presence, being watered and nourished. Growing our faith and our trust. And bearing fruit for God’s glory and the kingdom of heaven.

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me as we imagine ourselves as trees by God’s streams of living water.

Blessings and faithfulness as you are rooted in the Lord!