Lately I've had a *guidance* theme going on my blog, huh?!
So, I thought I would do another re-post...(no, not lazy - busy, yes!)
I re-read this post myself, and I just love how God *re-speaks* a good word to me. I was once again comforted by the nurturing and warm character of our Heavenly Father. He is so very good to us!
Please enjoy this post originally posted on September 26, 2010:
GOD IS LIKE A TREE
Years ago on a family vacation, as we were driving on the highway, we saw a sign:
"FRESH FRUIT – HOMEMADE PIES"
One quick look at each other, one fast U-turn… and we were off into parts unknown.
It was a quaint country road – mostly dirt and gravel – bumpy, twisty – the four miles took about 40 minutes to navigate!
Around one more bend, and there was an adorable little farmhouse, nestled next to a fruit tree orchard!
The people were the nicest people ever…and the pie???
The MOST DELICIOUS I have ever tasted! YUM, YUM…
Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" reminded me of that little orchard:
"[The LORD says] 'I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you. I am like a tree that is always green; all your fruit comes from me.' Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them." (Hosea 14:8-9)
What a lovely picture!
God demonstrates His loving care – He listens to our prayers, and He answers them.
He is the source of our nourishment! He is a tree that never dies – His fruit is all we need!
I have this picture in my mind of myself sitting under a giant tree, relaxing in the shade - and then when I'm hungry, I just reach up and pick a piece of fruit to eat.
It's kinda like what I do with "Bible Pick 'Ems" -
God is the Tree, and His Word is the Fruit.
Each time I go to Scripture, there is something *good to eat.* Something that nourishes my soul. Something that is pure, and good, and satisfying!
Hosea reminds us that we need to listen, learn, and benefit from God's Word.
We need God's wisdom – "Lord, help us to understand."
We need discernment – "Lord, help us to listen carefully."
We need guidance – "Lord, show us the way to go."
It is only by walking in God's ways that we can live in His power and hear His voice.
Without God's guidance we are lost –
He is the difference between life and death…
"Those who are wise will take all this to heart…" (Psalm 107:43)
"But for those who are righteous, the way is not steep and rough. You are a God who does what is right, and you smooth out the path ahead of them."
(Isaiah 26:7)
We must always remember that God cares for us continually – His love knows no bounds!
What a wonderful promise...
...what a wonderful comfort!
We rest in the hands of the Almighty!!
How does God nourish you?
Linked today with Charlotte at SPIRITUAL SUNDAYS
BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"
Hi Sharon,
ReplyDeleteAs always an excellent post. Just three of the ways God nourishes me, through His Word, through songs inspired by the Holy Spirit and by blogs like yours inspired by the same Holy Spirit.
God Bless -Nita
What a great image!!! I love sitting outside under a big tree and I love sitting anywhere in His presence. have a great week Sharon...
ReplyDeleteAnother great post. I am nourished by God's Word, God's love, and by His stripes, in which I am healed.
ReplyDeleteJust stopping by to say hello - I always love your messages. sandie
ReplyDeleteWhen we lived in California a group from our church would go to a place called Apple Hill. It was up in the hills, of course. Besides the good company of friends we would enjoy apple pie, apple fritters, and other apple things including "apples." This brought back those memories. As wonderful as those apple pies were they were no match for the matchless nourishment of the Word of God.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Charlotte