Strong Roots of Faith and JOY

          Have you had your JOY JUICE today?  If you desire to have a strong faith with deep roots, be determined to drink the JOY of Jesus faithfully!

            Have you heard about the valley oak trees of California?  I read about one of those trees that has a trunk NINE feet in diameter and is more than 600 years old!  Can you imagine the strength of its root system?

            Even a young oak tree has a tap root which can go 60 feet deep to search for groundwater.  As the tree matures, it develops a tiered root system with feeders that permeate different layers in the soil…thus easily finding the water needed for growth.  And listen to this bit of info: Mature Valley Oaks can produce up to a TON of acorns in a good year.

            What a challenge to us…as Christians…that we should be so productive-- spiritually speaking!  Our “roots” should reach so deep that we always find the Living Water for our thirsty soul. As John 7:38 says: “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”

           May the roots of our faith grow deeper and stronger as we allow the Living Water to permeate every layer of our heart.  Let’s ask God for wisdom in how to be more productive for Him and allow His fruit of the Spirit to grow and thrive in our lives…especially the fruit of JOY!! J

            Won't you join me as we plant ourselves like a mighty oak beside the streams of Living Water?  Father, saturate us with Your love and joy!