ingful and significant life, because you’re rooted in God’s love. You won’t be a spiritual zombie sleepwalking through life. Every day will have purpose, and your life will be more than just going through the motions of a routine, mundane schedule. Paul concludes, “… and the power that comes from God.” Not only will you be filled with the fullness of life, you will experience God’s power.
Most people live powerless lives, feeling like they have no control to change their habits, circumstances and ultimately their own lives. They are not rooted in the love of God. In fact, most problems in life are caused by a weak and shallow spiritual root system. Worry. Fear. Anxiety. Stress. Guilt. Shame. Boredom. Loneliness. Resentment. Biter- ness. These are the results of not knowing and trusting the love and power of God deep within your soul. Without a strong root sys- tem, we have the potential of leting these things choke the life out of us and convince us that it can’t get beter. So, what is the answer? How do you know
We may not be able to change our circumstances overnight, but as we plant ourselves in the Word of God and nurture ourselves in His love, we can make a difference in our own lives, our families and the world around us.
when you or someone else has spiritual roots? Simply, the fruit is evident. The fruit has roots! If you have spiritual roots, you will have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, good- ness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control overflowing in your life. Your morning will begin with joy and your life will be fulfilling throughout the day, even when there is de- spair coming your way. You know with your mind and heart that the Lord is in control and relinquish that power of your will to Him. We may not be able to change our circumstances overnight, but as we plant ourselves
in the Word of God and nurture ourselves in His love, we can make a difference in our own lives, our families and the world around us. This roten root system does not start and end with us individually. The number one problem in America today is the decay of the roots that our country was founded on. Our culture is spiritually rootless. We see conflict in many areas because of the lack of spiritual roots. It is time to get back on track and get deeply rooted into the Word of God, living out the Fruit of the Spirit and becoming radicals for the Lord. Evaluate your root system today, dig deeper and grow in your rela- tionship with God, invest that same love into your family and others. Colossians 2:7 (GW): “Sink your roots into him [Christ] and build on him. Be strength-
ened by the faith you were taught and overflow with thanksgiving.” If you have deep roots, the more you will understand God’s love and the more grateful you’re going to be. Let’s get busy growing some radical roots in Christ.
Pastor Russ Winn serves as the lead pastor for The Springs of Bonita. God placed in his heart the desire to pioneer an outdoor church that would reach across denomi-
national barriers to include people from all walks of life. Russ has been a church planter, pastor and evangelist, bringing over 30 years of ministry experience and a heart to restore those who have experienced brokenness in their lives. Angelia and Russ enjoy a wonder- ful marriage and have five children between them (Tori, Joshua, Ally, Savannah and Dixie), and three grandchildren — Carter, Remi and Noa — who bring joy to their lives. As a minis- try partner, Angelia has a passion and zeal for God, her husband, her family and the body of Christ. Angelia is involved at The Springs, devoting much of her time to women and children. Together they own Noah’s Ark Acad- emy, serving the families of Bonita Springs.
JULY - OCTOBER 33
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