we looked at Colossians 2:6-7 and Ephesians 3:17-19 to explore our identity as the people of God, and concluded that we need to be rooted and built up in Christ if we are to become spiritually mature. Trees are frequently used as a metaphor for growth in the Bible (see Jer 17:7-8, Psalm 1), and we know that the root system for trees to grow well requires both good soil (to enable nutrients to be absorbed by the tree) and water.
In spiritual terms, we need to remember that we live by faith and not by sight (see 2 Cor 5:7, Gal 3). The Parable of the Sower reminds us that good soil matters if we are not to be affected by thorns and rocky ground. We have God’s help in times of trouble (Ps 46) and can therefore continue to grow even when external circumstances are not the best.
If we are to be rooted in God and built up in Him, we must learn to listen for God’s voice, to the voice of the good Shepherd. (John 10:4-5) This will require time spent with God, because we only learn to recognise voices as we know people personally and intimately. The prophetic word of God and gifts of the Spirit are essential to our growth, but we must also learn to remember what God has done and to record this to avoid forgetfulness (see Ps 77:11).
Ephesians 3:17-19 reminds us also of the fundamental (and ongoing) need for love if we are to be rooted in God. 1 Cor 13:4-8 gives us the definitive description of love, which must grow and mature in us as we receive God’s love.
Psalm 1 contrasts the wicked and the blessed, those who live according to the wisdom of the world and those who live God’s way. We are called to delight in God’s word and let it dwell in us richly (Col 3:16) so that we can grow thereby. God’s love, faithfulness, mercy and grace shape our lives and sustain us. Then we can continue to live in Him, walking by faith, allowing His Spirit to grow much fruit in us so we can thrive in all seasons and in all weathers. God’s people are called to thrive and not merely to survive; they are called to dig deep so they can reach out and be fruitful for God. Then, in the words of Casting Crowns, the result is ‘Joy Unspeakable, Faith Unsinkable, Love Unstoppable, Anything is possible.’ (‘Thrive’, Casting Crowns) That’s quite a destiny for us all!