Becoming Godly

The godly will flourish like palm trees
and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon.
For they are transplanted to the Lord’s own house.
They flourish in the courts of our God.
Even in old age they will still produce fruit;
they will remain vital and green.
They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock!
There is no evil in him!” (Psalm 92:12-15, NLT)

Can you name any strong, flourishing, fruit-bearing trees? I can. Here’s my list: Bud, Margaret, Ernie, John, Virginia, Marlene, Lonnie, and Chris. Every good gift comes from God, and these “trees” (people) are a gift to me. They embody what the psalmist describes as “godly.”

Even in old age, the “trees” in Psalm 92 are strong and flourishing as they abide in God. Their roots go deep as they read and obey the Bible, worship the Lord wholeheartedly, and walk in holiness and love. They are green and growing as they trust in God, ever proclaiming with their hearts, minds, and moments, “The Lord is just! He is my rock! There is no evil in Him!”

Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit” (John 15:5, NLT). The godly in Psalm 92 aren’t the type who retreat into retirement, get caught up in the 24-hour news cycle, complain about the "lazy younger generation,” or grumble about the lack of hymns in church. They’re not focused on what they’re entitled to receive; instead, their days are marked by serving, giving, and loving. With eyes fixed on Jesus, their lives bear beautiful fruit.

Maybe you don’t see yourself as part of the "old age" category and think you’re off the hook, but the reality is we’re all aging—no matter what Instagram or infomercials might suggest. Time is ticking, and each of us has the opportunity to choose who we are becoming with the days we’ve been given.

We are all becoming something. Are you becoming godly? Do you want to make the list of strong, flourishing, fruit-bearing trees? I do.

Look to Jesus.