June 2019 – I decided that I wanted to relocate back to Michigan. I wasn’t happy living in Georgia and I was suffering from anxiety, which was all but debilitating. While on our drive home through Kentucky, we came to a complete stop on the expressway. I sat in the car with my arm resting on the door staring out the window. I was immediately fascinated by the exposed roots of a tree. They were intertwined in the shape of the letter “j.” I started to think about our personal roots. You know, those things that were planted by others and even ourselves. I thought about how deep seeded they are and why we aren’t willing to expose (confess) them so that God can heal us.

A “root” can be defined as something that is an origin or source. They generally do not grow where there is no oxygen or where the soil is compact(ed) and hard to penetrate. “Compact” can also be defined as an “agreement or covenant.” Thus, many of the issues and/or triggers that are evident in our lives are simply agreements we have made with ourselves. Why did this happen? OR Why does this continue to happen? We blame our plight on everything and everyone instead of looking inward. Instead of – getting to the root!

If you water a root – give it your time, attention, verbalize your thoughts – it will thrive. Ironic enough, roots have no specific place that they grow, they just do and because of that – they are able to destroy anything – even what “appears” to be a solid foundation. This is more evident when they get tangled up with other roots (issues, problems of others) and become stronger. Almost impossible to manage.

But, I know a man. He is the author and finisher of our faith. He sits high and looks low. God wants us to be delivered and set free from bondage. His Word says – cast all your cares upon Him because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7) Whatever it is – trauma from your childhood, brokenness, a failed marriage, a prodigal child(ren) – give it to God! He’s waiting!!