Planting of the Lord

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalms 1:3

During my morning quiet time, the Lord directed my attention to some large pine trees outside. The entire landscape is changing with spring upon us. The grass lush green, the azalea's deep coral, the Japanese walnut full of purple flowers. All bringing forth new life as expected with spring.

Pine trees on the other hand are evergreens, so there really is no expectation with this particular tree. However, I gazed upward and noticed numerous new structural growths appearing. Silent internal growth was manifesting in the natural with tender shoots all facing heaven.

It occurred to me as Christians there is an expectation as well. We are to represent Christ, and live a life that brings honor to our King. We desire beautiful growth as seen in spring with new life. Yet, we are to be as the evergreens; steadfast, flourishing, showing abundant life. To experience structural Christian growth, takes time and costs much. It requires time in the presence of the King. Spending time in the Word of God, prayer and pressing in for more from the Lord. It is during our quiet time with the Father that our internal structure develops, matures and eventually sends forth new structural growth. Yes, as seasoned women of God we can still grow, we maintain the evergreen status and still send forth new shoots.

As a Christian of many years, I have longed for a sweet spirit. I know several mighty women of God, who have a sweet spirit in the Lord; it is evident the moment they speak. This spirit is heard in their voice, it's on their countenance and seen in the way they carry themselves. These women are anointed of God. It didn't just happen; rather it is a direct result of time spent with the Lord. The scripture tells us we shall be like a tree planted by rivers of water, bringing forth fruit in our season. As evergreens do not wither, so are we to continually bring forth good fruit. The way to strengthen your walk and produce more fruit is to spend time with the King.

There is no substitute in Christian growth to spending time with the Lord. You gain more spiritual insight, clarity of scripture, and a deeper spiritual sensitivity if we drink from the "rivers of water" as the Psalmist states. Our rivers of water, the word of God, the Holy Spirit and access to the throne room through prayer.

I am continuing to press in for a sweet spirit. This would be structural change in my spirit. I'm certainly not where I want to be. However, I have seen changes in my attitude and my love for others, all natural manifestations of what's taking place internally.

Father, I thank you for changing my spirit to be more like you. I ask you to search my inner man and where flesh needs to be removed bring this to my mind. I long to be more like you, change me and sustain me as I wait on you.

Geri Hoggard