The Maple Tree Example

This bushy maple tree was in a fence row and apparently had its beginning as a single small tree that was cut off quite a number of years ago. The remaining stump then sprouted 9 new shoots that grew into a clump of 9 tall, sturdy trees. The 9 trees were finally also cut off leaving the stumps. Within 1-½ years, the 9 stumps had sprouted more than 140 new shoots and had grown into bush to a height of 10 - 12 feet. If only the first single stump had been rooted out, instead of just cut off, this problem could have been avoided.

Sin works much the same way. Unless we have it “rooted out” of our hearts by the power of God, it will continue to grow and multiply, and finally overtake and destroy us.
Root out the little sins lest they multiply. (Romans 1:17 - 32)
Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23 - 24)

Back to Short Stories

Printable PDF