In Time

This past Friday I sat and listened to a very well known speaker who told the story of the Chinese Bamboo tree. I did a little research of my own to discover that this inspirational story has been told by many others for years.
The Chinese bamboo is planted, watered and cared for, but very little is seen of its growth for several months. Actually, after four years of nurturing this plant all that can be seen is a small insignificant sprout. However, after four years of cultivating and having patience the plant grows at an astounding rate in the fifth year up to eighty feet. This is only possible because for the first four years that plant was developing a strong root structure, that could support such rapid growth.
In our lives we often think that if can't see results than we have not grown when reality is that if we grow without the proper infrastructure than all our growth will be in vain. This is how businesses fail, relationships fall apart and young successful people crash and burn. It is God who determines the growth of that plant, and it is God who must determine the plans and goals that He has for us. As we remain faithful, diligent and honest is our approach to being successful in the eyes of God He will determine our steps and sustain healthy growth that can be carried on to be a blessing for generations to come.
As we grow in the face of opposition, challenge and difficulty let us remember to put down strong roots and trust God for the increase that only He can give!

"Wickedness never brings stability, but the godly have deep roots."
Proverbs 12: 3 (NLT)