Sure, I’m a biochemist by trade, but I falter greatly in the area of biology. To me, the only classifications of plants consist of those I like, those I don’t care for and, the unfortunate, yet ever-growing category of those I have killed. Yet, despite my extreme ignorance, there is one thing I know about biology that continues to fascinate me: trees have an amazing root system. Tree roots can extend up to 1½ times the height of the tree, providing a network that serves to transport vital, life-giving nutrients and provide strength in the face of horrible storms. Trees even strengthen neighboring trees, locking their roots together in a manner that enables them to withstand severe winds and rain.

The prophet Jeremiah tells us that the “man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him . . .will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:7b-18)

Are you like me and find yourself envying this man/tree? My worries are ample, and I can readily produce a list of fears. Yet, I can’t believe Jeremiah drew this analogy merely to make us jealous, for the prophets’ words contain a promise to you and me. As with many Biblical promises, it comes with a condition. What is this condition? Confidence in the Lord. Trust in the Savior. Total surrender to our Abba Daddy. It’s that simple, and yet that difficult. And the promise we’ll receive if we choose to accept this condition? Roots that extend to the stream. Unlimited water. Flowing nutrition. Safety. Protection. Security.

Is it worth trusting in the LORD and placing your confidence in Him? That is a question that only you can answer. I can merely tell you how my heart responds as it loudly proclaims, “Yes!”

Are you thirsty –parched from trying to balance your worries and fears? Jesus offered the solution to this when he spoke to the woman at the well. He said, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14) Let’s trust our Maker more intimately and stretch our roots to this living water!