What would it take to find peace, contentment and security today?
This morning, as I read scripture from Zechariah 3:10, I was mysteriously comforted by the image of the fig tree. It reads; “The Lord Almighty declares in that day each of you will invite his neighbor to sit under the vine and the fig tree.”
As I think about this passage, I am reminded of a time long ago. Seeing my grandmother’s fig tree in her backyard, with its big green leaves spreading out bigger than my head and its thick limbs reaching out wide, it looked more like a bush than a tree. Nevertheless, it made the perfect hide out while playing Hide-&-Seek as a child.
Surprisingly, the study note for this scripture said, “A proverbial picture of peace, security, and contentment.” While I was seeking refuge under that fig tree as a child, that is exactly what I found.
What would it take to sit in peace, contentment, and security?
When you think about the fig tree as a picture of peace, contentment, and security, what does the Bible say about these things?
Peace,
- First, Jesus says in Luke 12:22 -34; “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes….Instead, seek God’s kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.”
Contentment,
- Next, Paul tells in Philippians 4:11-13; “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Christ who gives me strength.”
and Security
- And lastly, in John 14:27 , Jesus says; “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
But God is asking us to do something.
I can imagine myself sitting under that tree. Sitting represents rest and the tree is God. Therefore, as I rest under God, I find peace, contentment and security.
The other day, a friend called to invite me out to the lake. The timing was right, so I hopped in my car and drove across town. As I reached my destination, I found her sitting at a picnic table gazing out across the water. Quietly, I sat down beside her, taking a deep breath as I settled in. We didn’t speak because we didn’t have to. Sitting by the water’s edge, she had found peace and wanted to share it with me. Sensing God was with us, I felt satisfied, safe and secure.
5 thoughts on “Peace, contentment and security and where to find it.”
Thank you for this message in such a troubled time. Sheltered in the arms of God. Peace. Love you
We all could use a little peace right now. -M
Nicely done!
I love this one! My grandma Gossett also had fig trees. I often find peace in my yard under the trees….now I have a wonderful image to hold whenever I sit out there. Thanks
Jesus says, “Peace I leave you.” We should always lean toward the peace in our lives. I think that is a direct path to God. Thanks for reading and commenting. It really does encourage me. Hugs! -M