In Psalm 37:35, David marvels at the wicked “spreading himself
like a green bay tree” (KJV). Young’s Literal Translation puts it:
“as a green native plant.” 

We have a schefflera plant, or umbrella tree, in our living room.
Because it is not native to where we live, it makes a nice
houseplant, growing to 10 feet tall at most. But in a tropical climate
such as Florida or Australia, it can grow to 40 feet. 

Why should we wonder, then, when we Christians struggle?
We are not native plants. The earth is not our home, and we can
expect to have rough times. Our Lord promised us that.
But we also have this promise: “Blessed is the man who perseveres
under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive
the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him”
(James 1:12, NIV 1984). 

 

Taken by permission from “Legacy of a Pack Rat,” by Ruth Bell Graham, ©1989 The Ruth Graham Literary Trust.