In the first few years of a tree, the life of the tree is not vigorous surface growth but root development. Therefore, rather than trying to be like other mature trees or wanting to look good on the outside, one should make sure you have proper root development.
Let us not think you are a mature tree already, but continue to examine your roots or heart. What no one sees in the dark (how your roots are growing or what you are doing when no one is watching) will be openly displayed in public as a reward, whether as an embarrassment or
Promotion.
What is root development? How about praying, reading the Bible, obedience, living as a living sacrifice, dying to self, following God’s commands, cleansing your robe, church, tithing, etc? These all take years and maybe decades.
Each branch is an experience and growth in that area. You are to bear fruit in each major branch as you walk those paths. The tree can represent the journeys of your life. Once you become mature and large, you will provide spiritual shade and spiritual food for others. But why would people come to you when your branches are old, dry, lacking leaves, and have no fruit?
Proverbs 11:30 AMP The fruit of the [consistently] righteous is a tree of life, and he who is wise captures and wins souls [for God—he gathers them for eternity].
Additional Comments:
So the question remains if you are a “tree of life.”
Are you capturing and winning souls for God? Or are you just a tree for the squirrels 🐿️?
Senior Pastor Steve Kim