If we are to grow and thrive spiritually, we must take time to cultivate our spiritual roots by implementing the following practices:
Spend Time in Prayer.
Nothing is more nourishing for our spiritual roots than spending time alone with God in prayer. In fact, Psalm 46:10 commands us: “Be still and know that I am God.” It’s in these quiet moments of solitude and mediation that our roots not only grow stronger, but also deeper.
Spend Time in the Word.
Unfortunately we live in a world where a vast majority of people believe that all truth is relative, which basically means there is no truth at all. God’s Word rejects this claim and promises to be our moral and spiritual compass. Psalm 119:105 proclaims: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, and a light on my path.” Without a source of truth to guide us, we are likely to be led down paths that will damage our roots. However, consuming God’s Word on a regular basis will help strengthen our entire root system.
Become Part of a Local Body of Believers.
Encouragement and support from others is an important source of nourishment for our roots. Hebrews 10:24-25 speaks to this very point when it states:
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encourage one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Worshipping and fellowshipping with other believers nurtures our roots and encourages growth.
Serve Others.
There is something almost magical about serving others. It helps us forget about our own problems as we focus on others and their needs. The most rewarding part of serving others is that not only does it feed our roots, but it also feeds the roots of the person we are helping. For that reason, we should regularly seek out service opportunities that will encourage growth.
Seek Help.
Life is filled with hardships and heartache. Sometimes these events severely damage our root system, and we may need the help of a professional to help guide us through the healing process. It is important to heal this type of damaged root to prevent its effects from spreading to our relationships with others. If left untreated, it may even have a negative effect on future generations. While this will be some of the most difficult root work we will ever do, it will also be the most rewarding.
Action Plan
Choose one (or more) of these practices to incorporate into your routine this week. I would love to know what you have chosen and how it is working for you. I would also love to know what other practices have worked for you so I can add them to this list.