Strong Trees
April 20, 2022 by Gil Killam
Filed under Daily Devotions
By Gillis Killam –
In our second pastorate a young couple was shaken in their faith because their newborn baby girl was afflicted with a condition that necessitated her being in a cast for quite some time in order to correct the condition. They questioned, “We don’t understand. Why God would allow this to happen?” At first, I didn’t know what to say, but the following came to mind.
When I was a young boy walking with my father along the edge of the forest near where we lived, I asked why the trees along the edge were broken, battered, and scrawny. My Father explained that when a new road was being built near our home they had to cut down the trees along the edge of the forest: these trees that had withstood high winds and storms had developed a strong deep root system and became a protection to the ones directly behind them. Now, these once sheltered trees were exposed to the severe weather and did not have the strong roots to withstand the strong winds and so they did not flourish.
My answer to the young couple was, “There is not a strong tree that the wind has not blown on.” I explained to them that God has a purpose in allowing storms to come in life to make us strong in our faith.
We may not understand at the time; however, God is working out His design for us and through this trial will cause us to grow and develop a ministry that may help others in their time of storm. Paul says, “ Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ… who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV).
When we are growing up in life and faith we need the protection of stronger people who have experienced the storms of life, like our parents and friends, so that when we grow to maturity, we too will have deep spiritual roots and depth in life.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4 NIV).
Gil Killam was born in New Brunswick, Canada and served as pastor in 4 pastorates in Saskatchewan & Alberta, Canada. Gil is married to his wife Lorna and they have 5 children, 14 Grandchildren and 5 great grand children. He is a graduate of Eston College with a Bachelor of Biblical Studies degree. He also served President of his denomination. Gil enjoys golfing and reading in his spare time.