So again, that tree that was in our backyard has spoken to me for the past few days. Amen. As I look at the roots that are still there all around the dirt — mind you, we have been picking them up like crazy, and there are still so many left — Amen. As I see this, I begin thinking about us and our lives, and the things that happen to us that grow in our hearts. Sometimes, there are things we never deal with in our lives that continue growing in our hearts, developing deep roots. In turn, those roots can be messy to deal with, because it takes a lot of determination to get to the root and get it all up and out. Amen.

This is the thing: what goes into us, as the word says, comes out from us. Whatever we eat or drink will be dispelled in the draught. Amen. But the Bible says that the things that defile us are those that come out from our mouths. Amen. It says that out from our hearts is where we speak. Amen. And what we speak is in us. Amen. That’s why the Lord tells us to guard our hearts above all else. Amen. Because out from them proceed evil thoughts, fornication, murder, thefts, false witness (Matthew 15:17-20). Amen.

So, if this morning you see areas in your life that the Lord reveals to you, then by all means take them to the Lord and begin to deal with them. When our hearts are not right, then we are not right. Amen. When we let things go and overlook what is within us — the way we’re talking and acting — well, that is a huge mistake on our part. We can’t feed others well when we are full of bad roots. We can’t be the friend we should be. It’s hard for us to love the way we should. Everything, because everything of who we are comes from our hearts. Amen. But when we get to the root of it all and heal from the pain and hurt and whatever is there within our hearts, then we are so lovely. Amen. We are able to feed others well, so to speak. We are able to shine so brightly for Jesus. Amen.

It’s like that tree with all the dirt and roots and things that are there, but they’re dug up. The sweet little birds are all around it, feeding on it all. Amen. Because we got to the root of it and dug it up. Amen. Now fresh ground is there, fresh new soil is there, and those birds sure are loving it. Amen.

So again, we want to be different. We want to make a difference. It starts with us, our lives, and our hearts. Those old roots. Amen. So let us get busy digging them up, taking it one day at a time, doing the best we can with what we have. For it is in His name, Jesus’ name, that I do ask and pray. Amen and Amen. Be blessed today, my dear sweet friends, and remember: wherever you go and whatever you do, be a light for our Father. Much love to you all, Mandi