Hosea 14:8“O Israel, stay away from idols! All your fruit comes from me.” I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you. I am like a tree that is always green;

There has been a lot of debate about how and when Christians began to embrace the evergreen tree as a symbol of Christmas. Some argue that it has its roots in pagan worship, and others point to ancient accounts of God giving new life. Obviously I have no issue since we have four (yes, I said four) wonderfully decorated around our house. I desire not to enter the argument of whether to have or not have a tree. I would rather point you to consider a self-description our heavenly Father gives Himself. I hope that by considering this scripture you can find encouragement this Christmas season.

Traditionally the evergreen tree was a symbol of protection and shelter. However, God adds one more element to this picture. He promises provision as well. When you look at an evergreen tree this season, remember these three things.

1. God is faithful in every season. Like an evergreen tree, the current season does not change the condition of the tree. What God has done in the past, He will do again. He is faithful to His word and He is faithful to His people. He does not change.
2. God is an unyielding source. The picture of a tree that is an evergreen displays a source that is unyielding. Everyone who looks to the Father discovers a source that never disappoints and never wavers. No matter the dryness of your life there is a resource you can tap into and flourish.
3. God can produce fruit in any season. Though the evergreen tree is unyielding in its display of greenery, there is no fruit for nourishment found on this type of tree. This fact reminds us that God can produce what we cannot produce in ourselves. God promises to produce fruit for those who will look to Him and not to other things. God can make the fruitless things of life fruitful when you depend on Him.

Today’s Challenge: Pray today to taste the unyielding and unending faithfulness of God. Remember that there is no season that He cannot produce fruit in your life. Accept no substitutes and focus on Him.