DEVELOPING ROOTS

Have the roots [of your being] firmly and deeply planted [in Him, fixed and founded in Him], being continually built up in Him, becoming increasingly more confirmed and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and abounding and overflowing in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:7 (AMPC)

REFERENCE
Colossians 2:6-10 (AMPC)

The need to be rooted cannot be over emphasized. Being rooted is perhaps the most important and least recognized need of mankind.” Being rooted is indeed one of our basic needs because it is only when we are rooted that we can grow. When we grow deep in Christ, we can live tall in life. Sometimes people think that their growth is in God’s hands, but no, it is in their choice to be firmly rooted in Christ.

Thus, if you want to grow tall, you must send roots downwards to tap into underground waters; then God will give the increase. There must be planting and watering before God give the increase. Only trees that have strong, firm roots can live large; the same principle applies to Christians.

Since being rooted is imperative for our growth as Christians, how can we then ensure that we have our roots deep in Christ? We must understand that the process isn’t an overnight one. The process of being rooted, grounded, and settled in Christ requires a continual work. Plants first use the early stages of their lives to develop roots before they ever bring forth a shoot. Here are practical steps that will keep you firmly rooted in Christ:

1. Spend time with God, stay in His presence because the seed that must have proper roots must be in contact with the soil, otherwise, it will die. Keep the Lord continually in your heart and fellowship with the Holy Spirit. It is about your personal development.
2. Desire and become an ardent student of the Word of God. I Peter 2:2 say “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” The Word of God provides all the nutrients and moisture you need to grow.
3. Pray and listen to God; talking to God fosters closeness.
4. Live a Life of Worship and Thanksgiving. God inhabits our praises!
5. Give consistently; do not withhold your resources from God. Jesus said that where a man’s treasure is, there his heart will be. You cannot worship God and mammon (Matthew 6:21. 24). Ensure your resources go to the things that matter to God.

The reason why many Christians are stunted in their growth is because of uprooting and transplanting. When you find a good church that resonates with your spirit, stay there. Don’t be given to moving from church to church; only leave if you feel led of the Lord to do so.

PHOTO QUOTE

ADDITIONAL STUDY
Psalm 1:1-3, 63:1, & Matthew 6:33

REFLECTION

Where are you planted? Are you I firmly rooted in the place of your planting? Are you growing? In what ways have you stunted your growth in the Lord?

 Find a quiet place and reflect on these questions, take a pen and notepad, write down the answers that come to mind. Then prayerfully write down the changes you need to make in order to be firmly rooted. Ask God for help as you pray.