FLOURISH LIKE THE PALM TREE

Then he carved all the walls of the temple all around, both the inner and outer sanctuaries, with carved figures of cherubim, PALM TREES, and open flowers – 1 Kings 6:29

The righteous is likened to trees in several Scriptures, and specifically to FLOURISHING LIKE THE PALM TREE: “The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon” (Psa.92:12). Trees play significant roles in Scriptures. Sin originated from eating the fruit of the Forbidden Tree (Gen.3:6, 11-12). The first coverings were leaves from a fig tree (Gen.3:7). The Ark of the Covenant was made from an acacia tree (Gen.6:14). It was under a tree that God promised Abraham a son (Gen.18:8-10). Aaron’s rod of an almond tree budded and produced fruit (Num.17:8). Elijah was depressed and suicidal, under a juniper tree (1Kg.19:4). Isaiah says, “All the trees of the field will clap their hands” (Isa.55:12). The closing book of the Bible says: “In the midst of the street on either side of the river was the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruit, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations” (Rev.22:2). However, of unique significance is the PALM TREE!

God has special regard for palm trees: they were etched throughout Solomon’s temple (1 Kgs 6:29-35; 7:36). And they will be in God’s future temple, as vividly illustrated in Ezekiel chapters 40 through 44, which give riveting details of the temple. On the first day of the Feast of Tabernacles, the children of Israel were to take palm branches and rejoice before God (Lev.23:40). Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem involved palm trees: “The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ The King of Israel!” (Jh.12:12-13). The crowd welcomed Jesus at His triumphal entry, with the plea for salvation. The Palm Tree therefore speaks of Salvation and Celebration.

What then can we make out of this heavily pregnant scripture: “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree”? The Hebrew word “flourish” used here means: to bloom or blossom; to spread or grow; to fly as in, extending the wings; to break forth; to break out; or to spring up. Palm trees are known for their long life. To “flourish like a palm tree” means to stand tall and to live long. The Amplified Bibles says that the righteous will be: long-lived, stately, upright, useful, and fruitful. Today, we’ll have an overview of the righteous being “like the palm tree.” Our subsequent meditations shall focus on specific qualities of the palm tree for deeper insight! Here are ten unique characteristics of the palm tree that we shall explore in the coming days:

The palm tree has a Variety of species, functions and uses. It flourishes in Variety.

The palm tree has deep roots and will not break. It flourishes in Depth and Stability.

The palm tree withstands formidable forces and stands strong and tall. It flourishes in Strength.

The palm tree doesn’t just grow or survive, but it flourishes in the desert.

The palm tree breaks bands, unlike other trees – it flourishes in Freedom.

The palm tree is Evergreen, symbolizing immortality and constant freshness of life.

The palm tree usually grows very tall with leaves at the top. It flourishes in Majesty and Beauty.

The palm tree is distinctive, special, and unusual. It flourishes in Distinction and Royalty.

The palm tree is ageless; its fruit grows sweeter with age. It flourishes with age.

The group of palm trees form an oasis which provides shade for the weary. It flourishes in Unity.

The palm tree is a powerful picture of the Christian’s life. Palm trees are a symbol of righteousness, uniqueness, and royalty – qualities required of those who’ll abide with God forever. The uncompromisingly righteous will be like a palm tree – long-lived, stately, upright, useful, and fruitful! They can grow, flourish and produce fruit anywhere and in adverse and diverse conditions!