Wednesday, May 7, 2008

"Just like a Tree...."

One evening we took a walk along the river with some visiting friends. It was a quiet, relaxing, scenic activity that was suitable for the end of a long day.

At this particular time, the water level of the river was significantly lower than usual. This had left exposed to view the roots of the trees that grew along the riverbank. These massive roots were so intertangled that is was difficult to determine which root belonged to which tree. Looking at the combined strength of these roots, it was apparent what had held these trees in place over the years. A lone tree could not have withstood the surging power of the flowing water; however, as a combined unit they could withstand the force of floods and the river debris that rammed into them. What was the weakness of the one became the strength of many.

This is true of the fellowship of belivers. We do not all have the same assets and liabilities. My weakness is someone else's strength. We are able to overcome adversity by unity with others of like faith.

Exodus chapter 17 speaks about Israel's battle against Amalek. Verse 11 tells of Moses on top of a hill and when his hands were held up, Israel prevailed. But when Moses let his hands down, Amalek prevailed. Verse 12 talks about Moses becoming tired...."but Moses' hands were
heavy". It was them that Aaron and Hur "supported his hands, one on one side and one on the other. Thus his hands were steady until the sun set." The battle was won not because of the strength and obedience of one man. The enemy was defeated because when one believer became weak in his battle for the Lord, others came to his side and let their strengths pick up where his weakness left off.

As believers we are not to let diversity be a divider. Instead the uniqueness of each person is a
strength that will bind us together.

"If I trust Him ever, I shall not be moved
In His love I'm hiding, I shall not be moved
Just like a tree planted by the waters,
Lord, I shall not be moved."