If you go to Israel, you will find these ancient Olive Trees from which they still harvest olives. The trunks of the trees aren’t much to look at, but they are fruitful because a well-developed root system sustains them. A well-developed root system is vital to any plant or tree thriving. The same is true for a Christian. It doesn’t matter how beautiful the leaves or flowers are in the roots don’t go deep.
Romans 11:17-18
“Now if some of the branches were broken off, and you, though a wild olive branch, were grafted in among them and have come to share in the rich root of the cultivated olive tree, do not boast that you are better than those branches. But if you do boast — you do not sustain the root, but the root sustains you.”
Roots Give Life
The symbol of Israel is an olive tree. As Paul is talking here, he is referring to those Gentiles who have been grafted into that tree. The new branches aren’t better than the existing ones or the tree. The branches do not sustain the tree (John 15), but the roots sustain the branches. This is important because there are those in the church who believe that the church has replaced Israel. There is no truth whatsoever to that belief. Israel is still God’s chosen nation, and it will be where He establishes His throne.
Grafted In
As a wild branch, we have been grafted into the established tree, and we enjoy the rich root system of the cultivated tree. All the benefits and blessings that come from that tradition is extended to us. Are you partaking in those? They are given to every believer, and it will sustain you as you grow in your faith. Abide in the trunk and draw from the roots.
A Well-Developed Root System
Our job as a follower of Jesus is to produce fruit. Determine to focus on that which is going to make you fruitful. Fill yourself with the source of life that will cause growth and sustain you in those difficult times. In a year from now, you will be amazed at how much you have grown. It will also sustain you for the long haul.