Many prophecies in the Bible have metaphors. God communicates with his people, giving pictorial images as metaphors. The Lord Jesus Christ also used parables to communicate spiritual truth and principles. Understanding such metaphors gives deeper insights and wisdom. Hence, the Bible is considered the richest literature. (Jeremiah 17:5-8)
Stunted shrub: The shrub represents a life that is cursed, lonely, amid dryness and drought. Shrubs grow in the deserts or parched land, or salt land, or wastelands.
Human strength: The life that is compared to shrubs is according to human wisdom, human strength, and human approach. Many people seek salvation using their own wisdom, imagination, interpretations, and projections. They wish to eclipse God from their lives and take control of their lives. Jeremiah warns that such people’s lives will be like a stunted shrub in a desert.
Tree beside a stream: A planted tree symbolizes blessedness, stability, fruitfulness, and strength. The tree is nourished because of the water, good soil and sunshine.
Godly confidence: Instead of depending on human strength, they depend on God. A person who diligently reads and meditates on the Word of God is compared to a planted tree beside a running stream, that has evergreen leaves and gives fruit in its season. (Psalm 1:1-3) God has called His people to be a blessing by being students of the Word and walking according to God’s will.
Foundational truth: The community that has such people of God who are like trees will flourish and prosper. First, Blessed people of God are not in deserts where there is no spiritual strength, but are nourished by the streams, the Spirit of God, the Living waters, strengthened by the Word of God, established in the fellowship of God’s people. (John 4:14) Second, they do not live in despair and fear, but are full of peace and confidence, leading to success. Those who trust in God will not be moved. (Psalm 125:1) Third, they are not barren, but fruitful, blessing others with their fruit. There is joy in giving to others, sharing God’s care, love, and provision with others.
Am I a shrub or a tree?