The California Redwoods are massive trees, apparently the biggest living things on earth. Some are higher than 360 feet, and some are more than 60 feet around. Many are over 100 years old, and some are even over a thousand years old.

Some of them have even been somewhat burned in forest fires—but they still stand. In some cases, the bark is a foot thick. Wow, those trees are steadfast!

As strange as it may sound, I think they’re an inspiring vision of how enduring and steadfast we can be as people. Time passes. Fires that threaten come and go. But here we stand—securely rooted.

How do we grow like that? How do we become that enduring and steadfast?

Here’s an idea: Spend time with wise people.

Proverbs 13:20 says: “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” If you intentionally journey through life seeking out and listening to wise people, they will rub off on you and your roots will grow deeper. But if you only hang out with fools, it will harm you, and your branches will wither!

So, who are these wise people?

First and foremost, the wisest person ever is Jesus. The biblical authors are also wise. So are humble and devout friends and people in the church. I’ve also started a new habit of listening to podcasts of wise people while walking my dog Buddy or driving the car.

Become a California Redwood. You can do this, in part, by spending time with wise people. Grow deep roots, enduring and steadfast, for the glory of God, to become more like Jesus, and to bless the people around you for years to come.

“Walk with the wise and become wise…”

By Matthew Ruttan

–This Sunday (August 2, 2020) I’ll be teaching about the “soul fatigue” that many people are experiencing. I’ll offer a response based on Jesus’ words as we seek to find rest for our souls (Matt 11:29) in this weary time. If you’re not on our list, click here for the Sunday morning email reminder that connects you directly to our live-stream on YouTube.

–[Blog] “Suggestions for a more robust prayer life.” That’s my latest blog. Click here to read.

–Announcement: After Monday, August 3, 2020, the Up! devotional will be going on vacation until September 2.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.