A little over a week ago I was taking a prayer walk through the woods and saw this toppled oak tree. Just days before it stood tall and majestic. But a wild wind storm swept through our area and it came crashing down. Though everything looked fine on the outside, carpenter ants had eaten away its core.
Large oak trees are sometimes like that. They can look strong and impressive but actually be weak, ready to fall when the next storm hits.
I find it sobering because our lives can be that way. Perhaps we look strong and capable to others and ourselves. And maybe our lives are even producing good things. All the while, however, things can be out of whack and getting hollow inside.
I want to listen to the lesson of this oak. I want to be strong inside and out. Looking at this tree made me ask, what do I need to give attention to in this season of life for inner strength and long-term resilience?
For me right now I need to prioritize time with God, quality relationships with family, friends and teammates, and my physical health. Perhaps the answer to that question is a bit different for you.
How are you doing inside? I want to encourage you. Take time to think about inner health and strength. No matter what kind of season you are in or entering, you can find inner strength as you listen to God, lean into him, and let him shape your priorities and life.
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