Rooted and Grounded Part 2

1. I’m not just reading the Word—I’m letting it read me
Instead of rushing through chapters, I slow down long enough to ask:
“Lord, what are You exposing in me?”
Because the Word isn’t meant to just inform us… it’s meant to transform us.
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only…” (James 1:22)
 
2. I’m chewing the Word, not snacking on it
A snack gives you energy for a moment.
But meditation makes the Word sink into your spirit like roots into soil.
I’ll take one verse and sit with it all day, repeating it, praying it, writing it.
“His delight is in the law of the Lord… and in His law he meditates day and night.” (Psalm 1:2)
 
3. I’m putting the Word into my mouth before I put it into my mind
Storms don’t ask if you studied. They ask what’s stored.
So I’m memorizing scripture—not for religion, but for survival.
Because what’s in your mouth in a storm reveals what’s in your heart.
“I have hidden Your word in my heart…” (Psalm 119:11)
 
4. I’m practicing obedience in small things
Temporary faith loves inspiration.
Rooted faith loves obedience.
Even if it’s uncomfortable, I’m asking:
“What is one thing I can obey today?”
Because revelation without obedience produces deception.
“The wise man built his house on the rock…” (Matthew 7:24)
 
5. I’m building consistency, not emotional dependence
I can’t live off “Sunday excitement.”
I need “Monday roots.”
So I’m learning to show up when I don’t feel hungry, because discipline creates depth.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
 
6. I’m asking God to break shallow soil in me
Some hearts can’t hold seed because life has made the ground hard.
Disappointment. Trauma. Offense. Pride. Busyness.
So I pray honestly:
“Lord, break up the fallow ground.”
“Break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord.” (Hosea 10:12)
 
7. I’m staying planted around people who stir hunger, not hype
Storm-proof believers don’t grow in isolation.
We need accountability, sharpening, and community.
Because roots grow deeper when you’re planted in the right environment.
“As iron sharpens iron…” (Proverbs 27:17)
 
Bottom line
I’m learning that the Word isn’t just something I receive…
It’s something I must retain, respond to, and remain in.
Because borrowed faith won’t survive personal storms.
But a Word that is rooted in God becomes an anchor when the winds rise.
“When tribulation or persecution arises… he immediately stumbles.” (Matthew 13:21)
But when the Word is planted deep… you stand.
And that’s the goal:
Not excitement that fades… but roots that hold.

Much love, Pastor Michael