“But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever.” Psalm 52:8 ESV

The Olive Tree

One of the most amazing trees is the olive tree. It is mentioned many times throughout the Bible, and God references many aspects of living and producing fruit just like the olive tree. It is one of the most important of all trees because it provides us with food, oil, hygiene and healing.

The olive tree can grow and thrive in almost any condition: heat, wind, dry land, sand, hills, valleys, rocky soil, fertile soil, no water, or too much water. The olive tree is nearly indestructible. Sometimes the olive tree produces a good harvest right away when planted, and other times it may not produce any fruit for hundreds of years. It is said that the olive tree can never be killed or burned because new shoots will always spring up no matter what climate it lives in.

One day I was feeling very uneasy about not spending time in God’s Word like I usually do. I wasn’t taking the time in the day to read—my life was a whirlwind with business, church, family and friends. It was a fun time in my life, and I found myself constantly thanking Him daily as I went from appointment to appointment and place to place. I could see God’s hand in His perfect timing of each challenge and circumstance that I encountered. I found myself in prayer from each and every appointment asking for His favor and direction.

This particular morning, I desperately needed to hear from Him before I began my day. I was convicted of not spending my usual time with Him. I know it’s the most important thing I can do each day, but God understands our lifestyles. He is so loving and kind to accommodate us on our journeys. He reminded me of this particular scripture of the olive tree: that even when my life was busy and full of good things, that I was like a green olive tree. He understood this season in my life, as He does all seasons. It was a very short time with God that morning, but His Words were assuring and comforting. God was teaching me, and is still teaching me, how to be near Him, not only when spending quiet times with Him, but also in good life experiences—what is considered to be “perfect weather” for the olive tree.

God is near to us, and He experiences our every pain, heartache, and challenge in life. We are like a green olive tree growing in different areas and climates. No matter what situations we face in life, whether good or bad, we need to remain faithful, steadfast, and producing fruit just like the olive tree on our journey in life with Him.

Lord, we ask that You keep us strong like the olive tree in whatever climate we are in so that we can produce good fruit for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.