“Judah shall again take root downward, and bear fruit upward” (Isa. 37:31).
A tree grows in three directions: downward, upward, and outward. This verse promises growth and expansion in two of the three directions, both down and up at the same time. The message is that our growth as Christians is recognizable by ourselves, by the Lord’s angelic host, and by others as well.
Taking root downward is progress known only to us. The root system is below the surface and not visible to anyone. In the course of a year, there is growth, but it is undetected. You and I are not the same people we were a year ago. Perhaps others cannot see the deepening process at work, but we know it is there.
Bearing fruit upward has visible results. Fruit bearing is an activity that is open and apparent to any observer. Fruit is the end result of a year’s special effort. It is for all to see and enjoy.
Bearing fruit is also another word for productivity. When Jesus said that we would be able to judge a tree by its fruit, He was telling us to be observant of our own lives, as well as others’, because we show what we are by what we produce.
The ring on the inside of a tree may be minuscule and totally hidden from human view. But year in and year out, it records a message: this tree is growing and producing fruit. Visible and invisible growth is taking place.
You and I should be encouraged! The Lord has promised us continuous and on-going growth!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.