Please remember to pray for families who have suffered losses due to wildfires.
Perspective
Perspective
To stand at the foot of a giant sequoia is a humbling experience. The largest trees measure 35 feet across at the base of the trunk and stand over 300 feet tall. Their protective bark can be up to 18 inches thick. The oldest living trees today were alive when Christ lived on the earth. When the sunlight shines on them in the forest, they literally glow. They are a majestic symbol of strength and endurance.
The giant sequoias give us a sense of the greatness of God, the unchanging character of God, and the supreme wisdom of God. Over their 2000+ year lifespan, God has sustained them through climate changes, fierce winter storms, and dangerous forest fires which have charred some trees down to their core. Years ago the US forest service had a policy of extinguishing all forest fires in the sequoia groves in an effort to preserve them. But their actions were counterproductive because scientists discovered that the intense heat of the forest fires was necessary to open up the cones and release the seeds for germination. Without the forest fires, there were no young sequoias to replenish the forest. Without fire, there was no new life.
How many times have we tried do things our own way only to discover that God's way was best? We may not understand why He has placed us in the midst of various trials. But God showed His love for us by sending His son, Jesus, to endure the fire of the cross to give us forgiveness of sins and eternal life. His love, faithfulness and mercy have not changed. His plan is to work all things together for our good. If we seek His will, follow His word in the Bible, and see His perspective, we will find peace and comfort as we put our trust in Him.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
