New Growth
Spiritual growth happens when we remain rooted near the life-giving, refreshing waters of God's word, and Holy Spirit. In the Great Smoky Mountains National Park this truth is visible as the trees grow strong and fruitful along the many mountain streams which sustain them.
The Roaring Fork
Jeremiah 17:7–8 (NIV)
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose confidence is in him.
They will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit.”
Photographing mountain streams is a stimulating experience. The lush green canopy over the stream provides a calming shelter inviting you to enter. The sound of the rushing water drowns out the noise of the world, and while the streams are beautiful from the banks, stepping into the cool water provides even more photography potential.
In the Flow
It is a blessing to be in a mountain stream environment and even more so to be with God in such a way. Under his protection, hearing only his voice, and producing spiritual fruit.
When have you felt truly refreshed by God—spiritually, emotionally, or physically?
Rooted
Being rooted by the stream provides a constant source of life. A constant flow of living water even in dry seasons. How do you stay connected to God to grow roots? Worship music, reading the bible, prayer, service, fellowship with others, photographing God’s creation? Cultivate those habits that help you stay planted by God’s stream.
John 7:37–38 (NIV)
“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.
Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said,
rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
The Water of Life
Growth happens as we abide in the living water and the fruit we bear is a result of becoming more like Jesus.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Against such things there is no law.”
Consider areas of your life where you need God's refreshing presence to flow. Which fruit of the Spirit do you see growing in your life right now? Which one feels “dormant”?
Seek out a time and place to spend time with God so that you may experience new growth in your life.
Closing Prayer
“Lord, I want to grow in You.
Plant me by Your living waters.
Let my roots go deep in Your presence.
Refresh my soul and produce fruit in my life that glorifies You. Amen.”
