3-Minute Church: Deep Roots, Lasting Fruit
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Caleb Culver's sermon from March 16, 2025
LET'S BREAK IT DOWN…
What if the way we are chasing a flourishing life is actually keeping us from rooting ourselves where God wants us planted?
When we think of a fulfilled life, we often misconstrue God’s design. Our culture deems a flourishing life as goal-getting or engaging in self-care. The type of rest that we pursue is solely leisure—lying around, watching Netflix, and so on. While there is nothing inherently wrong with these activities, Psalm 92—also known as the “Song for the Sabbath”—teaches us that rest for the righteous begins in the house of God.
The psalmist writes, “The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green, to declare that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him” (Ps. 92:12–15).
While society might equate a successful and flourishing life with busyness and self-centered rest, the Bible tells us that we thrive when we are planted in the house of the Lord. Did you know that the Sabbath in the Old Testament was not just a day of personal rest but a sacred time for corporate worship and thanksgiving?
Rest does not equate to sleeping in on Sundays.
Rest equates to being in God’s presence, both physically and spiritually.
A study that examined mental health trends during the COVID-19 pandemic found that Americans who attended religious services weekly were the only demographic to report a net positive change in mental health during that period. Every other demographic—considering factors such as age, race, gender, income, and political affiliation—saw declines in mental health (Gallup 2022).
This is proof that the steady rhythm of gathering with God’s people nourishes the soul. We were not made to grow alone but designed to interlock with other believers in strength, just as the palms and cedars in Psalm 92.
As we delve deeper into Psalm 92, the psalmist explains the differences between the temporary flourishing of the wicked and the lasting fruitfulness of the righteous. This comparison is not necessarily about the wicked and righteous as individuals but about the longevity of their flourishing.
For some, the longevity of our flourishing is deeply connected to our consistency in the house of God. Grass, for example, may grow quickly. But it is also reliant on surface-level rain and easily withers. In contrast, palms and cedars develop deep root systems that tap into underground water sources, allowing them to thrive even in harsh conditions.
Like grass, are we dependent on circumstances and quick to wither? Are we constantly moving from one spiritual experience to the next, leaving when we are offended, and prioritizing our own comfort over the presence of God? If you have been a part of the church at any point in time, there is a good chance you have been hurt. This does not minimize the validity of that hurt, but it is an encouragement to remain planted even when storms come. Like the palms and cedars, we were made to withstand strong winds—our root systems interlocking and holding strongly.
The cedars and palms provide a model that bears fruit and is not susceptible to rot because of their irrigation systems. If we depend on rain, we will enter into drought when it does not come. However, if we tap deeply into our underground water sources—the Living Water—we will thrive without ceasing, even when conditions attempt to wither us.
So how can we practically apply Psalm 92 to our lives?
Prioritize God's presence with His people. Make a commitment to gather in corporate worship regularly, even when it is inconvenient or you do not feel like it. Remember that rest and rejuvenation come through engaging with God alongside others, not in isolation.
Trust God's sustaining power in difficult seasons. When facing trials or disappointments, resist the urge to uproot yourself. Instead, bring your struggles into God's house, allowing His presence and the support of the community to strengthen you.
Redefine flourishing. Challenge worldly definitions of success and happiness. True flourishing is not about accumulating wealth or living free from all constraints. It is about being deeply connected to the source of life itself, bearing fruit that lasts.
The psalmist reveals, “The righteous flourish because they are planted in the house of the Lord.”
This is not about church attendance. This is about being rooted in community. There is room in the house of the Lord for all.
Tap to watch Pastor Caleb Culver’s full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: Rooted in God's Presence
Reading: Psalm 92:1–15
Devotional: Today's passage reminds us of the importance of being rooted in God's presence. Just as the palm tree and cedar flourish when planted in the house of the Lord, we too can thrive when we prioritize our relationship with God. Reflect on how you've experienced God's presence recently. Are you consistently spending time in worship, prayer, and fellowship with other believers? Consider how you might deepen your roots in God's house this week. Remember, true flourishing comes not from chasing worldly success but from abiding in God's presence.
Day 2: Trusting God in Difficult Seasons
Reading: Psalm 73:1–28
Devotional: Asaph's honest struggle in Psalm 73 mirrors our own doubts when facing hardship. Like him, we may question why the wicked seem to prosper while we face challenges. But notice the turning point in verse 17: "Until I went into the sanctuary of God." In God's presence, Asaph gained eternal perspective. When you're tempted to envy others or question God's goodness, bring your doubts into His presence. Trust that His love for you is unwavering, even when circumstances are difficult. How can you choose to trust God today despite what you see around you?
Day 3: Building a Legacy of Faith
Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4–9, 2 Timothy 1:3–7
Devotional: Today's passages highlight the importance of passing on our faith to future generations. Whether you have children or not, consider how your faith impacts those around you. Are you living in a way that demonstrates the reality of God to others? Reflect on the spiritual legacy you've received from others and the legacy you're creating. Pray for opportunities to share your faith and encourage others in their spiritual journey. Remember, your faithfulness today can have ripple effects for generations to come.
Day 4: Embracing God's Salvation
Reading: Luke 15:11–32
Devotional: The parable of the prodigal son beautifully illustrates God's heart for those who are far from Him. No matter how far we've strayed, the Father is always ready to welcome us home. If you've never accepted Christ, or if you've been distant from God, know that He is running towards you with open arms. For those who've walked with God for a while, consider how you can embody the Father's welcoming spirit to others. How can you help create a church environment where people feel accepted and loved, regardless of their past?
Day 5: Finding Strength in Community
Reading: Hebrews 10:19–25
Devotional: Today's passage emphasizes the importance of gathering together as believers. In a world that often promotes individualism, God calls us to be part of a community. Reflect on your involvement in your local church. Are you consistently gathering with other believers? How are you using your gifts to serve and encourage others? Remember, we weren't meant to walk this journey alone. When we come together, we can spur one another on towards love and good deeds, finding strength and encouragement in our shared faith.