Deeply RootedSample

Deep and Wide

The Bible mentions roots in different but common ways. Wickedness never brings stability, but the godly have deep roots. (Proverbs 12:3) In the Amplified version of the Bible, wickedness is described as pride. And when pride is [boiling up with an arrogant attitude of self-importance], then comes dishonor and shame. But with the humble [the teachable who have been chiseled by trial and who have learned to walk humbly with God] there is wisdom and soundness of mind. Deep roots profit in wisdom and soundness in mind. These qualities don’t come easy though, but through being teachable and trials. Notice this verse says, chiseled by trial and who have learned to walk humbly with God.

Paul refers to the roots of faith in Ephesians 3:17, Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. The Message is more descriptive, Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God. By constantly using your faith, the life of Christ will be released deep inside our souls, and be grounded in the resting place of His love. Therefore, our root system will be secure and stabilize our spiritual life.

Matthew 13:1-12 also gives examples of a shallow root system with plants that die under the hot sun because of their lack of depth. Jesus told the disciples a parable of the farmer scattering seeds. Later Jesus explained the meaning saying the teaching (seeds) sown in the shallow soul didn’t establish roots and fell on deaf ears. And because the listeners didn’t understand nor believe Jesus, the devil came along and stole what they heard. He stressed the importance of deep roots to last a long time and grow in their spiritual walk with Him.

It’s important to establish a deep and wide root system so that our faith grows in the knowledge of Jesus. Just as roots ground the plant they support, our faith is supported by the roots we have in Christ. By faith, we are grounded in His heart. Therefore, we can say that Christ is rooted in our lives. His love nourishes our roots, ensuring our eternal connection.