Rooted

(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)

Colossians 2:7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong…

Anybody who has ever tended a grassy yard or a garden understands roots. If a weed is choped up by a lawnmower, there’s a good chance it will grow back because the roots are still embedded in the soil. If a large oak tree is chopped down it may not grow back, but the roots of the tree will take years, perhaps decades to fully decay. The roots are what kept the tree standing. The roots provided water and nutrients from the soil. The roots were essential to give the tree life. But if one of the roots sucked up just a little bit of poison, the entire tree would suffer and die. 

If many of us were to take the time to fully reflect on our roots (e.g., how we spend our time, energy, and money) we may be shocked at the result. We may discover we are more rooted in Fox News or CNN than in Christ. Or that we are more rooted in our work or a hobby than in Christ and our families. Worst-Case Scenario: We may discover our roots are bringing in things which are ultimately causing us more suffering than they are brining in that which is life-giving. 

READING & PRAYERS:

     COLOSSIANS 2:6-17  (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

PRACTICE: Today, take at least 3 opportunities to Pause what you’re doing and focus on Christ. If you’d find it helpful, utilize the One Minute Pause app to draw nearer to Him.

DIGGING DEEPER: Take 10-15 minutes to consider how you spend you time, energy, and money. Where are your roots? In what ways are you spending your time, energy, on money on things that are life-draining? What changes might you need to make to add more life-giving activities to your life? 

Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know that not all news, media, and entertainment may be “bad” or “sinful,” but I also recognize that the vast majority of media and entertainment communicates subtle messages which are opposite of the gospel. Over time, these messages can add up and are life-draining – even though I may not recognize it! Help me to more fully recognize what gives me real life and to more fully engage with You every day. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)