The Three Dollar Tree

Someday, everything will make perfect sense. So for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.

John Mayer

“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”

Maya Angelou

We have this tree in our backyard that’s super skinny and used to have barely any leaves. Occasionally we thought it would die because the leaves would turn a burnt color and we wouldn’t have minded terribly since it was only three dollars. But years have passed and now it has grown into a tree that attracts all kinds of birds, with lush leaves and a firm foundation.

A lot of times we feel like the three dollar tree. We feel like our beginnings are what defines us and we feel like giving up. But if we work with what we have and not let our mistakes shape how we present ourselves to the world, then we can grow into a person who brings life to those around us.

It’s easy to feel intimidated by the people who have exciting stories of how they came to faith. Or perhaps it’s the family that has always grown up in the church and seems so strong and stable that cause you to feel insecure. But no matter where you are on your faith journey, you are significant and still growing. No one has reached the end of their growing until they get to Heaven.

In daily life, it can be difficult to see all the wonderful changes and opportunities that are in store for us. It’s easy to look at the day-to-day and feel stuck. I’ve often found myself in that place where I don’t want to be, but I’ve resigned myself to.

But if we look at the bigger picture, we can realize that we don’t have to give up. We don’t have to settle for what’s in front of us. We can realize that we have more in store than what others expect of us.

In times of discouragement, it is vital to remember how loved we are by God and others. If we never forget that, then we can have hope that the same God that planned our lives has an ultimate purpose for us. He isn’t going to settle for some mediocre creation– He’s going to go all out. Because you are special and you were created in a unique way so that you can do something that no one else has done before.

Our only job now is to see what God calls us to do and go for it. Don’t let your fears or insecurities hold you back for the beautiful things that lie ahead.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Isaiah 40:31