This week I came across a short poem, by an unknown author, which made me pause for thought. It moved me deeply and I felt comforted.
Defeat may serve as well as victory
To shake the soul and let the glory out.
When the great oak is straining in the wind,
The limbs drink in new beauty, and the trunk
Sends down a deeper root on the windward side.
Only the soul that knows the mighty grief
Can know the mighty rapture. Sorrows come
To stretch out spaces in the heart for joy.
An oak tree is dependent on its extensive root system to hold it firmly in the earth, and for stability in bad weather. Despite their amazing size and strength, oaks are designed to sway in a storm, and this flexibility allows them to absorb the energy of the wind, reduce the immediate stress and avoid snapping. Also, as the oak moves, it detects where it is weakest and adds specialised wood to that area. Yahweh’s design schemes are amazing!
I’m reminded that Yahweh’s people “…will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of [Yahweh] for the display of his splendour” (Isaiah 61:3). What a beautiful picture, and special, because it’s chosen by the Designer Himself! We’re made righteous through the precious blood of Yahshua, and we’re expected to grow in righteousness throughout the rest of our lives. The apostle Paul encouraged, “let us cleanse ourselves from every impurity of the flesh and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of (Yahweh)” (2 Corinthians 7:1). Following this advice will help us to sink our roots more firmly into Yahshua, strengthening and stabilising us, giving flexibility in the storms of life, and showing us where we are weakest and need extra support.
There are times in all our lives when we feel buffeted by storm and tempest. We’re plunged into heartache, despair, anger or grief. As you’re struggling to find your way, remember you’ll be sinking roots more deeply into Yahshua, and building strength in the areas of weakness. During such times, remember that Yahweh will be ‘stretching out spaces in the heart for joy’!
Image by RegalShave from Pixabay
https://pixabay.com/photos/oak-tree-tree-huge-old-charleston-2018822/
The Test Of LoveWe look at our lives through a spiritual lens now, as we see how our actions as husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, friends and coaches, workers and employers relate to [Yahweh's] will.
Timothy Peck
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