A well-established forest helps prevent landslides and flood damage during the rainy season. The key lies in the deep roots that penetrate the soil.
The sturdy and long-reaching roots deep underground serve as stakes, preventing soil movement, while the dense and shallow roots act as a mesh, holding onto loose soil. The gaps in the soil created by spreading roots absorb water like a sponge, preventing rainwater from flowing into the river all at once. The soil in dense forest floors can store over 20 times more water than hardened urban surfaces.
In a life of faith, we sometimes encounter unexpected trials. Severe hardships like raging storms, can shake our hope of heaven, either all at once or repeatedly. Deep-rooted faith in God helps anchor our belief so that it doesn’t waver in moments of crisis. By setting our standards of faith in God and following the example set by Christ, we will protect our faith from the storm and finally bloom the flowers of the gospel with the fragrance of Christ.
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Col 2:6–7