We are called to display the Splendor of the Lord – “…They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.” Isaiah 61:3b
We ultimately are not here for our happiness, but for His glory, “This is my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8). Though He delights in us and takes joy in doing good things in and for us, He changes us so that we will glorify and worship Him. He is worthy of all our praise, adoration and worship. When someone comes to Christ, the most exciting part of that is that another worshipper has been raised up for all eternity for our Magnificent King! When we come back into a right relationship with God, where He is Lord of our life, and we are living in His power for His glory, the enemy is defeated, and God again is given rightful praise and exaltation.
- Why do you think He calls us an “oak of righteousness”? Why an oak tree? Why does He call us a tree “of righteousness”?
Did you know that oak trees are one of the strongest trees? Their trunks are very sturdy and their roots grow down deep and wide. They live long, grow tall, and are hard to knock over even in a storm. They also sustain a rich variety of animal life dwelling within them. We are called an oak tree in order to communicate that when we are in Christ, we will be sturdy, have a firm foundation, and will remain standing even in the storms of life.
This metaphor also describes us having deep and wide roots. Psalm 1:3 further describes this symbolism of roots, “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." When we walk in God’s Truth, His Word will nourish and strengthen us. Thus, we will bear fruit in our character and in our witness to others (Acts 1:8). God will pour our His blessing on us and we will prosper with a heart of contentment, joy, peace, and satisfaction.
- Do you feel like an oak tree today?
Let the Spirit minister these truths to your heart today, dear sister. Surrender anything keeping you from growth in the Lord. Ask Him to grow your roots deeper, wider, stronger. Pray through Psalm 1 and ask the Lord to make you like that tree that you might display His splendor (Is. 61:3).
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