In this tranquil scene, a stream of water flows quietly, its hue a deep green reflecting the emerald leaves of trees rising above it. These trees edging the brook have grown tall and mighty, and their substantial, entangled roots run down across the bank of the creek. Descending into the unseen depths of the water, the roots draw nourishment and life. It’s all so serene and calming, but I can’t help wondering what would happen if a storm came or a drought set in.
The photograph brings to mind an image from the book of Jeremiah:
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose trust is the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water that extends its roots by a stream, and does not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought, nor cease to yield fruit” (Jer. 17:7-8).
This picture is a beautiful reminder of an important truth: Just as those roots took time to reach deep into the water, it takes patience and perseverance for our roots to grow strong in the Lord, allowing us to face big trials with grace. As Jeremiah 17:7 says, the person who trusts the Lord is blessed. The world may fail us, but we can have confidence that God’s promises will forever be true.
