Women in the Window is in a season of growth. We want to be very circumspect and intentional about just how we grow and why it is important to be deeply rooted, in order to be fruitful and flourish – even in tough times of drought and privation. God has placed beautiful illustrations for many of life’s most important lessons in His created world. For this conversation, let’s consider some of the benefits of deeply rooted trees and how they compare to biblical examples of fruitful, flourishing and deeply rewarding lives:
- Drought Survival: Deep taproots reach moisture far below the dry top-soil layer during severe droughts. Isaiah 58:11, “you will be a well-watered garden…”
- Nutrient mining: Roots absorb minerals and nutrients that wash down deep into the subsoil out of reach of shallow plants. Colossians 2:6-7, “deeply rooted in Him.”
- Year-round hydration: Trees with deep roots have the capacity to stay green and active when other vegetation with shallow roots goes dormant or dies. Jeremiah 17:8, “with roots that reach deep into the water. . . their leaves stay green and they never stop producing fruit.”
And, not only that, but trees with deep roots are able to withstand storms! They have:
- Anchoring power: Deep vertical roots act like structural pillars to keep large trees firmly planted in the ground. Hebrews 6:19, “We have this hope as an anchor for our soul, firm and secure…”
- Storm resistance: They help prevent the entire tree from tipping over during heavy winds, floods, or severe weather events. Matthew 7:24, “anyone who hears and obeys these teachings is like a wise person who built a house on solid rock.”
Women in the Window is working alongside women in some of the most challenging, and “stormy” places on earth. As we work together with our ministry partners to equip and empower them to replace poverty and injustice with dignity and purpose in Christ, we NEED deep roots.
The Shepherd’s Tree (Boscia albitrunca) holds the documented plant record at over 230 feet deep, found by groundwater well drillers in southern Africa. What a fitting name!
As our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ Himself, shepherds us – we can hold fast, grow deep and stand strong against the storms that come our way. And, so dear, can you!
Would you like to grow with WiW? We welcome you to join our volunteer team – we have multiple opportunities for service locally, globally and as an online prayer warrior. We also have open staff positions! If you are interested in growing deep and standing strong with WiW, please let us know by replying to this email, or completing this application!
Gratefully Growing together,
