Have you ever driven through the impressive Redwood National Forest in northern California? Except for the Grand Canyon, I can’t think of another natural habitat in the United States as magnificent.

“Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it; let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy;” (Psalm 96: 11,12)

As you gazed upon those majestic 350-foot-high trees towering above, you probably thought as I did, Man, their roots must tunnel 50 ft. into the earth!

Amazingly, that’s not the case. Their roots are only a few feet deep!

“So,” you ask, “what’s to prevent them from toppling over and being destroyed when disaster strikes?”

It’s their reliance on fellow trees.

1. The Redwood’s root structure supports each other by interlocking their shallow roots with those surrounding them. When under duress, the older trees buttress the younger ones by developing roots on the downward side of those under stress.

In this stressful world, has your grandchild come to you for guidance and support? Do they need “buttressing?” Just as young Redwoods are bolstered by older ones, thus supporting their younger generation, grandfathers can strengthen theirs.

“For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:10)

It’s September. Frequently, grandchildren face bullies or peer pressure as they begin another school year. It was hard being considered different or nerdy in school back in our day. Can you imagine what it’s like in today’s world of prevalent social media? How often will a bullied misfit go along with the crowd even though it goes against their parent’s values because they crave acceptance? Or worse, consider drugs, alcohol, or suicide to stop the pain of being an outsider.

When you recognize any child struggling in today’s culture, it’s important to listen, encourage, and support them through strong biblical values. If correction is needed, it should be done in love, providing Christian guidance to overcome any challenge.

Grandchildren don’t need additional money, frivolous gifts, or worldly advice. They need TIME with wise adults who listen, understand, and offer practical strategies to overcome today’s pressures. Didn’t you need some “atta-boys” or even “come to Jesus” moments to keep you moving on a strong foundational pathway? Remember your school days? There is “nothing new under the sun, . . .” (Ecclesiastes 1:4-11) Children face similar situations to ours – it’s simply wrapped in different paper.

2. A fallen Redwood will ultimately branch out and grow. Still useful; its roots become other trees.

Are there deceased relatives you wish you could meet today? If you haven’t a clue, do some research. Your Family Tree probably has some amazing stories! Relate that heritage or keep a journal the family can read long after you’re gone. (How I regret not knowing more about my rich, spiritual heritage extending back to the 1500s.)

We might be older, so what? We’re still useful too! Read Joshua 13:1. God explicitly told Joshua he was still useful in his old age. Never become stale. Keep your mind and body active with new hobbies and skills you’ll share with your grandchildren.

3. The charring of the Redwoods bark makes it stronger!

When exposed to dangers like fire, Redwoods develop a protective shield. You’ve heard the expression, “What doesn’t kill ya, will make ya stronger?” How has God strengthened your “bark?” You’ve faced many obstacles along the pathway of your life. Perhaps you suffered bankruptcy, firings, medical scares, or family separations. But you survived! If nothing else, you’ve learned what NOT to do, right?

Many grandchildren believe they must be perfect to be loved. You weren’t perfect but you learned that God loved you in spite of your foolishness. God in His mercy, was there in the midst of that tribulation, pulling you out of that pit.

You’ve gained wisdom while overcoming life-long trials! Facing adversity and overcoming temptation makes a stronger, wiser, and more confident child too. (Genesis 50:20) It’s a part of life and they need to know God is always there for them when they open their heart to Him.

4. Surprisingly, the chemical composition of the bark is distasteful and even poisonous to termites and other pests!

Have you ever been bothered by human pests? Someone, who tempts you to be dishonest, rebel, or entices you in other ways? Teach grandchildren to develop ‘Bodily Armor of God’ so strong that even the demons wouldn’t dare approach! Real friends won’t judge or ridicule, nor will they allow a friend to harm themselves. Advise them to avoid those with bad character traits.

“Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Young Redwoods are most vulnerable, just like young Christians – especially with today’s worldly pleasures. Instill in them a sense of pride in their character and faith. They are children of a KING! Set them on an honorable path so they won’t be deceived by false teachers or peer pressure along the way.

This brings us to our final point:

5. The bark of the Redwood is a foot thick!

Christians must develop a thick skin, resistant to the worldly temptations found on social media, television, fashion, music, and other entertainment.

“For everything in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — comes not from the Father but from the world.” (1 John 2:16)

It’s hard for children to turn a deaf ear to criticism. Whether it’s about being too thin, heavy, ugly, or “too Christian” God created each child uniquely – they are special! The only one they need to impress is our Lord. But the world tries to convince them otherwise. Write a letter in which you expound upon their special qualities? They’ll cherish it forever!

Optimum health encompasses our individual mental, physiological, and spiritual health. These are turbulent times and strong biblical grandfathers are needed more than ever. Instill the belief that Jesus loves them very much. Christ endured the cross for them. To Christ, they were worth his sacrifice. With that knowledge, “Stand fast and hold on to Truth.” Make certain they know how proud you are of them when they overcome peer pressure thru biblical principles.

“Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

After attending Graham Jr. College in Boston and Moody Bible College, Ellie Marrandette earned her Bachelor of Ministry (BMIN) from Trinity Theological Seminary. Fascinated by psychology and physiology, God directed Ellie toward a rewarding healthcare career. She became a licensed, certified nutritional counselor, working with doctors, nutritional centers, and independently as the founder of New Creations Ministries , a faith-based solution in overcoming health challenges.

In recent years, God has focused Ellie’s path toward writing. She is the author of four Christian novels, a novella, and a non-fiction book on healthy living entitled, Life’s Too Short to Eat Bad Cheese (Nutritional and Life Lessons God Teaches Us.) All can be found Here. Her current endeavor is to complete a children’s devotional this year. For more about Ellie Marrandette visit here webiste.

Image of Redwoods by DeepAi