He is like a tree
Psalm 1:3
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
We have been stepping through the imagery of Psalm 1, where the blessed righteous individual is compared to a well-watered tree, drawing nourishment from the living waters of God’s instruction. However, we must recognize that being firmly planted is not the end result. An inherent expectation exists to bear fruit and generously pass on that blessing to others.
The Joys of Fruit
This summer, I have been fortunate enough to enjoy the fruits ripening around me. From strawberries and raspberries growing on bushes to mulberries and cherries on trees, this is one aspect I look forward to at this time of year. While most end up in my basket, more than a few go directly into my mouth. Seeing blackberries and apples still maturing, I look forward to when they are ready.
However, these fruits I’m savoring are not what the Psalmist would have envisioned. What fruit trees may the original audience have pictured? Deuteronomy 8:8 lists some of the most common fruits of the land: vines, figs, pomegranates, olive oil, and honey.
Other passages use similar fruity imagery. The book of Proverbs says that “the righteous will flourish like a green leaf” (Proverbs 11:28) and “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life” (Proverbs 11:30). Jesus compares his followers to fruitful grapevines, needing to remain connected to Him (John 15:1-8). Similarly, the apostle Paul encourages us to bear the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
The Right Season
How often do plants yield their fruit? Typically, it occurs once a year, around the same time for a limited time. Farmers must exercise patience and wait for it to grow and ripen. They diligently cultivate the soil, provide ample water, witness the budding process, and watch the fruit gradually grow and mature. Furthermore, not all fruit ripens simultaneously; each variety has its own distinct timeline.
Just as the fruits around me ripe at different times, so too do the fruits in Israel. Figs ripen first but only gradually throughout the summer months. Grapes reach their readiness in August. Dates, pomegranates, and olives are harvested in early fall.
Seasons of Our Lives
Just as fruit trees bear their fruit in due season, we too experience different seasons in our lives, each offering the opportunity for specific kinds of fruit to manifest. There is a time for growing and a time for bearing fruit.
It is important to note that this understanding of seasons and fruit-bearing is not intended as an excuse for idleness or complacency. If God is calling you to a particular task or purpose, he expects you to diligently pursue it.
However, if, despite your earnest efforts, it appears that God is withholding some fruit from you, consider exploring two potential avenues: first, examine your life for any unconfessed sins that may be hindering your growth as a thriving tree. Second, seek guidance on how God intends to use you in the present season of your life. Perhaps your current season is meant to yield a different kind of fruit, one that aligns with His greater purpose.
To Ponder…
Reflect on your own life. What kind of fruit are you currently bearing? How might God be maturing you to bear fruit in the future? Is there anything you need to work on in order to become more fruitful?