You might remember from studying trees in elementary school science class that you could tell how old a tree was by counting the annular growth rings. You may also find it interesting to learn exactly how those tree rings form.

Light and dark tree rings

In most trees, there are alternating light and dark rings. Light rings tend to be wider and soft. These rings are produced during years which had plentiful rainfall. These years often produced abundant foliage canopies and fruit, with growth above the ground.

The dark growth rings are often narrow and hard. They’re produced during years with little rainfall. These years typically see less foliage and fruit, with more growth beneath the surface as the roots grow deeper to find water.

These alternating layers are what produce the strength of the tree, allowing it to stand and yet flex in the wind. In God’s perfect plan, the tree grows above the surface when times are plentiful, and beneath the surface when times are difficult.

The alternating seasons produce a healthy tree whose root system beneath the surface is a near-perfect symmetrical reflection of the visible canopy above the surface.

Growing deeper in times of trouble

The same principle tends to hold true for us.  Our outer, visible, physical bodies tend to prosper when things are good, while our inner, spiritual being grows when things are difficult.

In Psalm 119:67, David writes: “I used to wander off until you disciplined me, but now I closely follow your word.”

In the same way, James 1:2-3 says: “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity of great joy.  For you know that when your faith is tested your endurance has a chance to grow.”

Troubles can come into our lives in an infinite number of ways. Individually there may be illness or injury, conflict in relationships, emotional distress or financial difficulties.

On a broader scale there can be natural disasters, wars, economic downturns, famines, or pandemics. Whatever the hardship may be for believers they are an opportunity for spiritual growth.

Looking to God for sustenance

To grow, the tree’s roots must go deep, breaking through hard soil and rock to reach the underground water table. So too must our spiritual roots go deep, breaking through hardness of heart to reach the living water of God’s word.

Faith comes by listening to God. Nothing can separate us from His love. His word will always provide hope, help, direction, and growth to guide us through any circumstance.

“But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night.  They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit in each season.  Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all that they do.” Psalm 1:2-3

As we choose to abide in His Word, God continually sustains us. He bears fruit in every season, makes sure our leaves never wither, and allows us to prosper in everything He has called us to.

Preparing for fruit in the future

The challenge is in the choosing.

In the alternating cycles of prosperity and adversity, growth occurs. Choosing to abide in His Word during the difficult times invariably produces more fruit in the next season of prosperity. This produces much fruit following the next cycle.

Choosing to not abide in His Word during difficult times weakens us, leaving us ill-prepared for the next season of prosperity. That never turns out well.

Scripture speaks of fruit that remains in John 15:16. In biblical times, there were no rest stops or convenience marts for travelers. A healthy fruit tree was a welcome sight for weary travelers who could rest for a few minutes under its shade and be nourished by its fruit.

The Apostle Paul encouraged the Corinthian church that God would help them in their affliction so that they could then help others.

When God allows us to go through a trial, it’s to strengthen our relationship with Him. That way, He can work through us in the lives of others. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow and change through adversity. It’s your chance to help someone else enduring a similar situation later.