by the rivers of water."
Psalm 1:3
A certain man was troubled because his employer sent him to a city where he didn't want to live. He made several attempts to get a job with other corporations. Nothing else would work. He was stuck where he didn't want to be. One day his wife said, "Have you ever thought this is the place where God wants you? If He has planted you here, then He will bless you here." He really didn't want to hear those words, but over the years she proved to be right. Their family was happy there. They made friends for a lifetime. His business thrived. They never wanted to leave there. God had really blessed them.
The psalms are rich in metaphorical expressions. The man who God blesses is like a tree planted by rivers of water. The water provides the source for the roots to grow strong and deep. We usually don't see the roots, but we surely notice the fruit. When God plants our lives in a certain place, His purpose is always to bless us. Circumstances may sometime take us where we don't want to go. In those times, we can trust God's providence to plant us there for a good purpose.
The source of strength and life for a tree comes from the rich soil nourished by the water. The root receives from the soil and water what is needed to produce fruit. God wants to work good fruit in our lives. He may even plant us in a place where we feel stuck. We may try to move without success. Always remember God plants you where He will bless you.
Prayer: Father, plant our lives like a tree by the rivers of water, that we may bring forth fruit for Your glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
