I heard a powerful sermon recently on growth. The pastor shared an insightful narrative of the role trees play in God’s story (Listen to the sermon on Spotify). From the trees in the Garden of Eden (of life, of knowledge of good and evil – Genesis 2), to the tree on which our Savior hung (Gal 3:13), to the trees of life on the banks of the river in Revelation 22. He reminded us that trees are stunning, rich metaphors for many of life’s dimensions. Growth upward and outward. Roots bring nutrients and hydration. Connectivity between trees gives them strength. Fruit tells you the type of tree and its health. Seasons force trees to adapt. Trees help us visualize many characteristics of God and our Christian life. They provide shade, nourishment and can even yield resources for protection or shelter. The next time you and your family spot a tree, see if you can pluck some Biblical lessons from its branches. It’s almost like they’re continual reminders of God’s presence and provision.

How to Make Family Devotions Work for You: A father is called to be the head of his household, and that includes nurturing the spiritual lives of his kids. Family devotions can be a vital element in this effort to raise kids who know God and love His Word. A few tips and some solid suggestions for resources are all you need to get the adventure started!

Proverbs 16: How Gossip Wrecks Relationships: One little patch of ice can send a car spinning into a guardrail. One small spark can ignite an enormous wildfire. And one snippet of gossip can damage a relationship forever. You may not think of yourself as “the gossiping kind,” but all of us wrestle with rumors and innuendos more than we’d like to admit. As we wrap up our study of Proverbs 16, we’ll dig deeper into what gossip really means—and why godly men need to ruthlessly remove it from their conversations.

“Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” – Warren Buffett

“A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.” – Saint Basil

“The tree that is beside the running water is fresher and gives more fruit.” – Saint Teresa of Avila

Check your fruit. This week, consider where you see fruit in your life. Is it in your relationships, finances, habits or career? Somewhere else? Where do you see blossoms of goodness? Buds of joy? Tasty treasures of peace? As you think on that, remember: good fruit is produced by good roots. What nutrients are you “feeding” yourself that might be causing this fruit to show up? Bet your kids and spouse WOOD enjoy this too! 🙂

Kent Evans
Author of Bring Your Hammer, co-founder of Manhood Journey and Father On Purpose.

P.S. Was this Mountain Monday helpful? Tell me if you love it, hate it, or if there’s something you’d like in the next one.

Forward this to a dad you know who needs some encouragement.