A lot of strength in this old tree. Think of the roots system and how far it stretches below the surface. It helps to be planted so close to water. How about you? Is your strength all above the surface? Are you planted near water? Are you remembering to drink? Not from the poisoned wells of our culture - but from the life giving well of faith.
The last two days I've made an effort to spend a few minutes here or there in prayer. Different kinds of prayer. It helps me keep my balance. It helps me fight temptation.
Flying home from a faith-filled pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, I was seated behind some guy (not a fellow pilgrim!) who chose to watch a very explicit film on the screen built into the headrest. I guess France Airlines allows for such films. I wish I could say I kept my eyes turned away once I saw what it was about - but I did not. Not good. I was shocked that such a film was viewable on an airline!
I kept looking behind and across the aisle to see if my sons were glancing up at this same screen and I was glad they were unaware. Wish I had looked away - and I did at least once or twice... but I kept glancing back. I need to remember where my strength comes from and to turn to that source in times of temptation. So do you... if you want to be truly strong.
