I’ve learned – or re-learned – a few important things in 2020. When grocery shopping, hit the toilet paper aisle first. Breathing while wearing a mask fogs my glasses. And being spiritually deep rooted is vital for thriving during “unprecedented” times.

For a brief moment back in March, when we first learned the serious nature of COVID, I thought I might topple. Fear and uncertainty rushed in like one of the many hurricanes we experienced this season and I felt the gale force winds.

But then God reminded me of some His truths that I have learned from His Word. Truths like He is sovereign. He is all-powerful. He is working through history and the circumstances of my life to carry out His purposes. And that even if my circumstances become severe, He will give me strength and peace and comfort.

Oh, and a couple more. This world is not my true home. This life is not my true life.

God could remind me of these stabilizing truths because I have worked for years to purposefully ground myself in the solid truth of His Word. What about you? Are you deep rooted?

What does it mean to be deep rooted?

The first chapter of Psalms depicts this spiritual principle with a beautiful word picture.

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not whither. Whatever he does prospers. Psalm 1:1-3, NIV

When we pursue a committed, ongoing relationship with God’s Word, we will be like sturdy, healthy trees with roots deep in a life-giving water source. When storms hit and the winds blow around us, we will stand strong. When drought threatens we will continue to draw our sustenance from the Living Water.

So, are you like that tree? Are you deep rooted? A new year is a great time to make a new – or a fresh commitment to get in and stay in the Bible. Perhaps you long to do just that but aren’t sure how to start or need some encouragement for the long-term.

Two opportunities to foster deep roots in 2021

1. “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Gospel of Mark” – This short-term, closed Facebook group begins Wednesday, January 6th with video teaching on the “4 R Bible study method.” From Monday, January 11th through Friday March 5th, the group will study my new devotional book “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Gospel of Mark” together. This study will include daily posts, weekly live Q&A with me, and periodic additional teaching videos. You do need a copy of “Deep Rooted” to participate. Want to be a part? Follow this link, request to join, and answer the three questions. (Get the book – either print or kindle version – on Amazon!)
2. “Reading the Bible Together” – This closed Facebook group is a place of encouragement and accountability for women who want to be in the Bible daily and would benefit from structure. We go through one Bible book at a time. Five days a week (Monday – Friday) I post the passage to read, a bit of commentary, and questions for discussion. Group members can read and comment at whatever time works for them. Some just read, but don’t comment and that’s great too. The goal is to help you develop a habit of being in Scripture. The group is also a wonderful community of faith and encourages and prays for one another. We will start Genesis on Monday, January 4th. I will post an introduction to the book on Saturday, January 2nd. So now is a great time to join! Follow this link and request to join. Be sure to answer the three questions.

I would love to see you in either – or both – groups! May God bless your commitment to be in His Word in 2021. (For a few more helpful resources see “5 Discipleship Resources to Start 2021.”)

What are your spiritual goals for 2021?

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