MUST ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN THE DISCUSSION
Background Information
The Psalms portray an image of an individual whose life is blessed by God: “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers” (Psalm 1:3, New International Version).
In Oklahoma, there is a region known as “Tornado Alley.” Tornadoes rumble through the area each storm season, sending families scurrying down into their storm cellars. Invariably, when the twisters touch down, they leave battered buildings and gnarled trees in their wake.
However, one type of tree always remains standing—the humble, homely mesquite. Certainly not the stateliest of all trees, the mesquite compensates for its lack of height by extending its roots deep into the sunbaked earth to wrap around rocks and to draw moisture from the deepest sources. Thus, the mesquite remains undaunted, green, and prosperous.
God challenges us to build our lives upon the “rootedness” of faith in the unchanging Word of God and upon the relationships we form with other children of God. May we, much like the mesquite, remain fruitful through fellowship with Christ, the source of our strength?
Instructions
- Read and reflect on Psalm 1:3, quoted above.
- For this extra credit discussion, navigate to the threaded discussion and respond to the following:
- In whom or what do the characters in the text this week “root” themselves? In other words, in whom/what do they put their trust? Whom/what do they value? What are the fruits (or results) of that trust?
- Can you find a literary device in Psalm 1:3? If so, name the device and identify where it is in the verse.