A Solid Foundation

A member shares a lesson she learned from three fallen trees. How can we strengthen our spiritual foundation and be strong in times of adversity?

Recently I saw three large trees that just tipped over. Their root systems failed due to excessive moisture. It was an incredible sight—the mighty strong trees lying on their side! Why? Because their foundations failed!

What lesson can we learn from this? Could we fall over or uproot as quickly as these trees? Or is our foundation more solid than the saturated soil in which these trees were rooted?

The spiritual tools for our foundation

How can we make sure we are on a solid foundation? The basic spiritual tools that God has given us come to mind: prayer, Bible study, meditation and fasting.

These tools are designed to fortify our foundation. Do we constantly and consistently use them? Or do we neglect our relationship with God—weakening our foundation?

Whether we use these foundation-strengthening tools will determine whether we’ll be strong when the “winds” of life blow—or weak and vulnerable.

Advice from those who are deeply rooted

I asked some of those around me who are deeply rooted and have been so for many years. Let’s look at some of the advice they gave me:

“It is our responsibility individually to stand up and be counted as one who will refuse to be led away from that very direct relationship with the Father through His Word. The trunk of the tree is the Word of God.”

“Spiritual longevity is in the doing, not just believing.”

“Focus on what it takes to keep going when everything and everyone around you says to go the other way.”

Concrete methods to stand firm

Another longtime member offered some more specific ways to stand firm:

“Ask God for guidance in everything you do. Keep a list of meaningful scriptures and review them every day.”

“Make prayer and study a habit. Set time aside for it every day.”

“Ask God to show you where you can help others and where you can be a light.”

“Bring personal problems to God in prayer, and thank Him for helping you!”

Summary

So what does it take to stand firm and make sure our foundation is firm and unshakable?

1. The strength of our foundation is dependent on our personal relationship with God.
2. Don’t just believe—act on God’s truth.
3. Be consistent, be a light, and be thankful!

“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13).

For more insights on lessons from trees, read “Unlimited Growth Potential.”