Flourishing Like an Olive Tree,

Unshaken in a Shaking World

Fruitful in Every Season

“But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. 

I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever.”

— Psalm 52:8

Henri Nouwen beautifully wrote, “ The soul rooted in God’s presence grows slowly, silently, like an olive tree that bears fruit over decades.” This image of the olive tree—evergreen, enduring, fruitful—stands in sharp contrast to the arrogant evildoer described earlier in Psalm 52:1-5. Where deceit and destruction may seem to flourish for a time, those who trust in God grow quietly, deeply, and eternally.

Jesus said, “Remain in me, and I also remain in you… If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit” (John 15:4–5). Rooted in the house of God, we grow not by force, but by abiding. The olive tree thrives not through hurried effort, but by consistent connection to the source of life.

Psalm 52:9 concludes with praise: “I will thank you forever, because you have done it. I will wait for your name, for it is good, in the presence of the godly.” Warren Wiersbe reminds us, “Praise flows not from present ease but from trust in God’s ultimate deliverance.” Even when justice seems delayed, the psalmist waits with hope in God’s unchanging character.

In times of discouragement, we are reminded:

• “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake… Rejoice and be glad” (Matthew 5:10–12).
  
  
• “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).
  
  
• “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap” (Galatians 6:9).
  
  

Psalm 52 doesn’t hide from the reality of evil, but it proclaims a deeper truth: those rooted in God will endure and flourish.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

In a world filled with noise, pride, and injustice, make us like olive trees—rooted in Your presence, steadfast in Your love, and fruitful through every trial. Teach us to wait, to trust, and to praise. You have done it, Lord. Our hope is in Your name.

Amen.