Sick? Hurting? Find encouragement here!

Me - The Olive Tree?

There are times in everyone’s life when the body gives way to illness or exhaustion. It is during those times that spending quality moments in the bible or in prayer are very difficult. There are many faith-building stories in the bible about people being healed yet if we continue to be sick or tired sometimes these verses give us trouble. But now is not the time to give up – now is the time to really fight! In Psalm 52, the author compares himself to an olive tree. The bible refers many times to olive branches and trees. Being a Texas native, I did not understand the reference, since you do not just walk out the door and see an olive tree, but a little research has made this verse one of my favorites!

Psalm 52:8
But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever.

Olive Tree Facts:

• The olive is an evergreen tree growing up to 50 feet in height with a spread of about 30 feet.
• Olive trees are long-lived. This tree's life expectancy is about 500 years.
• The trees are also tenacious, easily sprouting back even when chopped to the ground.

So even when a body may be suffering from disease or fatigue, this scripture reads true. By trusting in God’s unfailing love, we flourish! Our inner selves can be strong and ever growing. Like this tree, we can be determined to grow back even at times when we feel cut down. There is such an importance in holding tight to God’s word. When was the last time you claimed a scripture that compares yourself to something great? Are you strong like a mountain because you have God on your side? With God’s spirit, are you a hawk soaring over life’s temptations? Think of something majestic and get inspired! I’ll even share mine – because I’m like an olive tree.