But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. Psalm 52:8a

This olive tree in Spain is 1700 years old. It’s trunk is massive and gnarled, but it’s branches remain green, producing fruit. Quite interestingly though, its roots, while they grow vertically in the first few years of life, form a “flocculent” shallow network from there so that it might tap available water in arid conditions. As a result these trees can stand the heat.

What a picture of a faithful life. A time of “immaturity” before bearing fruit (in the olive tree’s case about 5 years), a complex root system laid down in the rich moist soils of his word, and years of steady fruitful growth.

Look for a moment at its fruit. One tree can produce as much as 245 gallons of oil a year. This product has a vast array of uses, all essential and profitable in daily life. The olive leaf in fact has all kinds of natural medicinal uses that rival modern medicines.

While others trust in themselves and their riches, godly people spend their days constantly in his presence, trusting him and his lovingkindness, waiting on him (“because you have done it!” V. 9), and thanking him.

In doing so, their faith will be as sturdy and unbending as this olive tree, and they’ll work selflessly and steadily serving others.