3 Characteristics Of Palm Trees

Since the passing of our dog a few weeks back, I’ve ignored the coconuts in the yard. You see, coconuts were one of Koshka’s favorite toys. She chased them, bit them, and treasured them in her collection. But today, God placed one on the paving stone in front of me. Not a fully developed coconut, just a seed. I bent over to pick it up and marveled at the fact that there is a potential tree waiting inside. Prompted by a stirring from the Holy Spirit, I set my bag down, pulled out my iPhone, and took a photo. Inside the house, a few minutes later, I used my phone to do a bit of research on palm trees.

The more I read, three characteristics of palm trees stood out to me:

Palm trees often evoke thoughts of lying in a hammock to rest and momentarily escape from the harsh realities of this world. This means palm trees are PEACEFUL.

Palm trees are flexible, have fewer branches, and can often withstand heavy winds. This means palm trees are RESILIENT.

The outside of a palm tree is comprised of the same material as what’s on the inside. Most trees have bark on the outer layer. But not palm trees. What you see on the outside is what you get. This means palm trees are AUTHENTIC. 

Peaceful, resilient, and authentic. As we continue to mourn our beloved Koshka, I ponder the meanings of these three characteristics of palm trees. And I’m grateful that each time I step on the path from my front door to my gate, I have a full view of the stately mature palm trees flourishing within the boundaries of our property. They remind me that:

“The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree…”
(Psalm 92:12, NIV)

My prayer for today:

God, grant that we might live peaceful lives, stand resilient in the face of challenges, and be our authentic selves, every step of the way. May we, like palm trees, flourish in Your presence and find comfort in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.