By Joe McKinney
Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”
The word in my house for 2021 has been “rejuvenation” for a variety of reasons. The year before had been a trial for us as I started chemotherapy to battle a cancer in my body. My immune system was brought close to zero after each treatment while nausea and discomfort followed. It didn’t sound comforting when the doctor said, “make sure you don’t get COVID because you will be hospitalized, and then I can’t help you.” However, I couldn’t dwell on that fear of the unknown. I needed to put my trust in the Lord on a daily basis.
After getting a clean bill of health later in the year, I needed to restore not only my physical body, but also my mental health. Rejuvenating my mind with the Word of God is such an important way to restore me from any anxiety and fear that built up. As Jeremiah 17 mentions the leaves remain green in the year of drought, I want to keep my focus on Him to stay well fed. We need to keep the vigor up in order to bear fruit in the difficult times. What is it that you need rejuvenation from?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the new energy given to my mind, body, and spirit each time I seek after You. Give me a fresh start of physical strength and good health by helping me feel that rejuvenation of my roots growing deeper into Your stream of life. I will filter any fear by seeking after You and the victory will sustain in me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.