We live in a world that celebrates visible results.
Faster growth. Bigger impact. More followers.
But God doesn’t measure results, the fruit, the way we do. While we’re often focused on what’s growing above the surface, He’s working on what’s below it. We must have the roots before (we see the) fruits.
The Root System
The quiet, hidden, unseen part of your faith – that’s what holds you steady when the winds start to blow again. See The Strength of a Tree for more details.
Deep Rooted – Slow and Steady
I’ve learned (and relearned) this many times: God grows roots before He grows fruit.
When life feels slow or silent, it doesn’t mean nothing’s happening. It usually means something important is (you got it), just beneath the surface.
Roots grow in darkness.
They don’t get applause. They don’t get attention.
But they make the fruit possible.
And the deeper your roots go, the higher your branches can reach without breaking.
Seeing The Results
That’s why God sometimes holds back visible results. He’s ensuring the roots can support the weight of the harvest. One of my favorite blog posts is about the branches having support. This is essential for the vine to bear healthy fruit. The blog post is about the key role of a trellis – read it to understand more about this.
Does the season you’re in feel quiet? Is no one noticing you? Does growth feel delayed? If you’re wondering why you’re still “underground” — maybe that’s because God’s not done strengthening your roots yet.
God always does His part, but you and I must do ours. We have some more work to do. Here are some steps we need to be sure to take:
- Get into God’s word – read the Bible
- Seek God’s guidance – listen to the Holy Spirit as He speaks to you
- Make application of His word, act on what you hear the Spirit say
- Faith without works is dead – as you act, growth will increase
The Shift in Perspective
I used to get frustrated when growth didn’t happen as quickly as I wanted it to.
But I’ve started to realize that slow seasons aren’t wasted. They are sacred.
God’s not punishing you with delay.
He’s preparing you with depth.
Before David ever held a crown, he held a sling, and
Before Joseph ruled Egypt, he learned faithfulness in prison, and also
Before Jesus preached to crowds, He spent time in the wilderness.
Roots first. Fruit later.
A Thought
If God is growing your roots, it means He’s preparing you to carry more fruit than you can imagine.
Deep roots are essential in bearing good fruit – Do you have a firm foundation?
I must say this – some believe they have it figured out…without God. The only issue is that God is the one who designed life and everything it operates by (God’s Universal Principles). So, to think this leaves one in a very vulnerable position.
Challenge of the Week
This week, instead of asking, “When will I see results?” — ask, “What is God strengthening in me right now?” Then, take one quiet moment each day to thank Him for the work He’s doing. That work which is taking place below the surface. Even when no one else sees it. Because someday, when the fruit shows up, you’ll realize He was building you for it all along. Roots before fruits. So be it!
