Here is a devotion to start your day!
A spoken version of this devotion is available through the Still, Here audio reflections podcast.
Scripture: Colossians 2:6–7
“As therefore you received Christ Jesus, the Lord, walk in him, rooted and built up in him…”
Reflection
Much of spiritual instability comes from living outwardly.
When outside forces seem more powerful than the life of God within, the soul becomes subtly anxious. Circumstances begin to determine feelings, reactions, and expectations. Even deeply spiritual people can feel this when something sudden or painful breaks into the day.
No one is simply rooted or unrooted. It is a matter of degree.
That is why Paul’s language is so important: “rooted and built up in him.”
Roots come first.
They are hidden. Quiet. Often unnoticed, even by the person who is growing. God does much of His deepest work beneath the level of awareness, strengthening what cannot yet be seen. Building up comes later, rising on the foundation that has already been formed.
This means spiritual growth is not measured by the feelings of the moment.
If you feel inspired, it does not always mean you are growing more. If you feel quiet, shaken, or low, it does not mean you are doing something wrong. God often works deeply in those hidden places.
To be rooted is, above all, to be safe.
Safe enough to endure. Safe enough to be honest. Safe enough to let God work where you do not yet understand.
And from that hidden safety comes consistency, persistence, and quiet strength.
A Prayer of Presence
God of hidden growth,
Root me more deeply in Your presence. When I cannot see what You are doing, teach me to trust what is growing underneath. Make me safe in You. Build what only You can build. And let quiet strength rise from unseen roots. – Amen
Carry This Prayer With You
Breathe in: Root me in You...
Breathe out: ... build me in peace
This work is freely shared. If it nourishes your life with God, you’re welcome to help sustain it.