Day 5 - Planted in Christ 

The giant sequoia is the largest tree in the world, standing at 52,508 cubic feet. For a tree that large to stand firm and withstand winds and storms, it needs to be anchored on solid ground. 

Paul is writing the letter to Colossians while still under lockdown in prison. He encourages the church to keep the focus on Christ. Faith will grow when we take hold of the truth written in the word of God. His promises are yes and amen. 

The measure of the sequoia tree's greatness is not determined by what we see on the surface but by the depth of the anchoring root. We face many storms in life, and there is only one name that can calm them, and it is the same name that is a solid foundation for Christianity. It is the name of Jesus. 

Colossians 2:7 (New Living Translation)

Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then, your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.

Paul speaks of an overflow of thankfulness. In his situation, things seem bleak, and there can't be much to be thankful for. He is confined, restrained, he is in lockdown physically. His surroundings did not determine his perspective and attitude towards the Gospel; he used it as a catalyst to turn a crisis into an opportunity to make Christ known. 

Our perspective is limited; we can struggle to find things to be thankful for when all we see is now. If we focus on God's reality, we find that there is so much to be grateful for. It all begins with the renewal of the mind and a shift in perspective. 

Romans 12:2(New Living Translation) 

Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

 Grounded by faith and Prayer 

Things will start to change when we change our thinking. Everyone will remember this season. What will be the one thing that God has done for you that you will remember from this season? 

What are you thankful for despite lockdown? 

Prayer 

Lord, please give us a heart of thankfulness, not just for what you have done for us but for what you are doing. Help us to remember your promises, that we may remind our hearts that you are a faithful God and that your word accomplishes everything you send it out to complete. 

In Jesus Name

Amen 

We here at Every Nation Faith City would love to connect with you as well, so please let us know if you need prayer or connection!  

Feel free to check out our full series on Letters From Lockdown Here