The first time Harry and I planted a tree we didn’t have the foggiest idea of what we were doing, so we did a little research. We had noticed that many trees around town were still tied to support stakes, even when they had obviously been planted years ago. Was that necessary? Through our research we learned that although many people stake their saplings to protect them from weather, it really isn’t good for them in the long haul. It gives them an artificial support that the trees continue to depend on, and they never experience the full effects of weather, they don’t develop a good root system. They’re ultimately more prone to disease and to be uprooted in storms even though they’re tied to a stake. Trees need to blow in the wind; it causes their roots to grow deep into the soil, giving them strength, endurance and fruitful beauty.

The trials that come from God are sent to prove and strengthen our graces and immediately illustrate the power of divine grace, to test the genuineness of our virtues and to add to their energy. Our Lord in His infinite wisdom and superabundant love sets such a high value upon His people’s faith that He will not protect them from those trials by which faith is strengthened. You would never have possessed the precious faith that now supports you if the trial of your faith had not put you through the fire. You are a tree that never would have rooted as well if the wind had not rocked you to and fro and made you take a firm hold upon the precious truths of God’s gracious covenant. ~Charles H. Spurgeon