Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58)
In a recent nasty storm that affected most of the nation, the howling winds were unrelenting. Some areas were flooded. Other areas were devastated by high winds and tornadoes.
Up in the North Carolina mountains, I heard and saw the wind howling through the wooded mountains. Since I was under protective shelter, it was an awesome sight to see and incredible to hear. I’ve always loved powerful storms as they remind me of God’s mighty power. But this one was a bit unsettling.
Then I noticed something interesting. A tall strand of trees beside the driveway were dancing ferociously, following the lead of each gusty blast. But just beneath them were some smaller saplings that barely moved. They were protected by the strand of taller trees. The violent winds barely affected them.
The Tall Trees of Life
When I compared the scene to life, I considered how the taller trees represent adult authority figures (e.g., parents, teachers, pastors, politicians, law enforcement, etc.) who are to protect the younger generation from the ferocious winds of this sin-cursed world. As long as the tall trees stand strong and unbending, the younger generation is protected. But should one, two, or more of the taller trees become compromised and fall, the younger trees become vulnerable to the nasty storms that rip through life.
Taller trees can also symbolize the more seasoned, mature Christ followers. Though further along in their journey toward Christlikeness, they are still human and prone to faults. Both their strengths and weaknesses impact younger, newer, more inexperienced believers. The apostle Paul warned, “If anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted” (Galatians 6:1). No one is immune to sin’s call. That’s why it takes a determined, intentional effort to remain “steadfast and immovable.”
Remaining Tall, Strong, and Protective
How do taller trees become and remain “steadfast and immovable”? Primarily by running their roots deep into the ground for their source of water. Several Scripture references confirm the strength and durability of trees with healthy root systems.
“He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper” (Psalm 1:3).
“For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit” (Jeremiah 17:8).
How do taller trees protect the smaller trees? It starts in the homes with parents. They bear the primary responsibility to “not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Nothing compares to the Judeo-Christian morality of the Bible.
“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
Other authority figures (teachers, pastors, politicians, law enforcement, etc.) must support and reinforce the high standard of Biblical morality by promoting and protecting an environment conducive to it. Child molesters, predators, traffickers, perverts, and anyone else with harmful views and intentions toward children should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Standing firm and tall in the face of such nasty storms requires not only resistance against them but also the pursuit of their complete eradication.
A Divine Responsibility
Jesus holds such precious “smaller trees” in a special place in His heart. He gave several warnings against anything and anyone intent on harming them.
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6)
“Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10)
Whether they are children or novice believers, “taller trees” are responsible for protecting, nourishing, and equipping them. In time, small trees become tall trees with the reciprocal responsibility. May we boldly stand tall—steadfast and immovable—for our own spiritual growth as well as for the protection of the “smaller trees” around us. May we run our spiritual roots deep into the Living Water of God’s Word.
Nate’s book, Called to Christlikeness, not Christianity – Purchase here.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Nate Stevens.
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