One of my early children’s song was inspired by a verse from Hosea 14 where God likens himself to a tree.
“Israel, have nothing to do with idols. I, the Lord, am the one who answers your prayers and watches over you. I am like a green pine tree; your blessings come from me.”
The original Hebrew word for “pine tree” is sometimes translated as fir tree, cypress tree or juniper. And the word “green” is variously translated as “evergreen”, “luxuriant”, “flourishing”, “growing”, “glorious”.
What a beautiful picture for God, who watches over us and makes our lives fruitful, if we put our trust in him.
BIG STRONG TREE
by Irene Bom (from Shepherd King Project)
Chorus:
Lord, You are like a big strong tree
And You help us live fruitfully
Lord, You are like a big strong tree
And You help us live for You.
1. You are like the dew
You make us all blossom like the lilies
You are like the dew
(Repeat chorus)
2. You are like the vine
We will grow if we live in You
You are like the vine
(Repeat chorus)
3. You are like the stream
You fill us up with life-giving water
You are like the stream
(Repeat chorus)