09/01/2026
Did you know that a healthy tree may consist of up to 80% moisture? With our present ‘dry spell’ that percentage may be a little lower! But scientists who study trees tell us that a tree draws large quantities of water through its root system or absorbs it from dew and rain. In his book As a Tree Grows, author Phillip Keller points out that “a tree does not hoard this moisture for itself. The vast network of running roots beneath the soil often exceeds the outspread canopy of the trunk, branches and leaves. Vast quantities of water are lifted through the framework of the tree to be transpired into the surrounding air. This moisture, along with the discharge of oxygen is what gives the forest atmosphere its fresh fragrance.”
The similarity between a tree’s use of water and the believer’s use of the ‘water of life’ is striking. In John 7:38 Jesus said, “Rivers of living water will flow from the life of the one who believes in Christ.” Jesus was referring to the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. The Holy Spirit, who is given to us when we receive Jesus into our lives, empowers and refreshes us, which in turn, enables us to be a blessing and inspiration to others. When you think about it – the source of life for a tree is the water, or the ‘sap’ flowing within the tree. Can you see a spiritual truth here? Psalm 104:14 says, “The trees of the Lord are filled with sap.” What is the source of spiritual life to the Christian? It is the power of the Holy Spirit flowing within us! He not only gives us spiritual life initially, but He perpetuates that life, assuring our spiritual growth and entablements.
The work of the Holy Spirit is an on-going process. His power is given to us for service and effective witnessing. As we live “IN” and walk “IN” the Spirit, His power is instilled with us for anointed service. His power is the “living water” not only to refresh us, but to equip us to be a witness of God’s goodness; enabling us to spread that goodness to others around us. We should never be afraid of the Holy Spirit! His power is given to us enabling us to become what God has intended us to be! We should welcome Him into our lives. Ephesians 3:16 echoes this thought as Paul prays – “That God would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man.” Another translation reads “That you might become mighty by His power.”
The Apostle Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome. His prayer was not for his own release or for physical comfort. Instead, he asked for spiritual fortitude for believers which is given to us by the Holy Spirit. Living out the Christian life requires a power greater than our human ability. This ‘inner strength’ allows believers to experience God’s presence and power in their lives It is also an influence that makes our witness irresistible! PB
