To be rooted means that you have firmly established yourself in the source from which you receive strength.

Difficult family and ministry events took place, which were depleting my strength and shallowing up my faith. I was clinging to the insufficient promises of this world, leaving me uprooted, directionless, and personally disconnected to God. I wasn’t deeply rooted anymore.

To help me become rooted again I began to cultivate the practice of Sabbath. Sabbath is being attentive to God, as well as to yourself, so I needed to step away from the orientation, distractions, and confusion of the world in order to reorient my relationship with God. When I did that, soon my inner spirit began to settle, and as God’s steadfast love and promises were brought back into focus I felt I had made it home! Being attentive to God, beginning to know him again, helped me to remember the faithful and unfailing promises he offers to me, and believe me, I needed to hear that over and over again.

When I felt inadequate I remembered that God is my adequacy. He promises to always supply. When I felt weak, I remembered, he is my strength. He is sufficient! When I became weary and burdened I accepted his invitation to come and rest. And when my plans failed I clung to the promise that his plan is for good, and not for disaster.

So during this season of Lent; steal away for a moment, an hour, a day. Be attentive to God, remembering his promises for you. May this keep you rooted, steady, and strong as you deepen your relationship with God.