When Storms Uproot: How God changes the landscape of our heartStorm Eowyn swept across Ireland this weekend with record-breaking winds of 114 mph. It toppled trees, scattered debris, and left many trading their weekend plans of rest and fun for chainsaws and wheelbarrows (that was us). The storm woke me at 4:30 a.m., battering our bedroom windows. Our own little Eowyn, climbed into bed beside us, whispering, "The storm is here. I’m scared." By morning, I woke to the sound of shattering glass. Venturing out after sunrise, I found the source: the old lamp post in our driveway. Its glass panes had blown out, but beyond that, the most shocking sight was the massive apple tree behind it—uprooted and blocking the drive. Initially, I felt disappointed. But as I surveyed the changed view, I couldn’t help but notice how open and different it looked without that tree. That evening, as I ministered to a group of women through prayer and breathwork, God began speaking to me about storms and uprooting. I was struck by the image of what happens when storms forcefully change the landscape. ![]() Jesus promised storms would come—the wind would blow, and the rain would pour. Yet not every storm that shakes the houses and trees of our hearts is an attack from the enemy. Some storms come directly from God. Why? To conform us to the image of His Son (Romans 8:28–29). Sometimes, trees in the garden of our hearts stop bearing fruit or cast too much shade on new growth. Other times, storms blow in seeds that grow into something God never intended. Whether beliefs, dreams, relationships, or gifts, when these trees outgrow their purpose, God may send a storm to uproot them. Uprooting is rarely gentle. The force required to break roots can be violent, leaving upheaved ground and collateral damage in its wake. Like the fallen trees scattered across Ireland after Eowyn, the process can disrupt roads, alter views, and require significant cleanup. But the resulting openness reveals something new—a landscape ready for fresh planting. When God sends storms into our lives, He targets areas in our hearts that need His refining. The winds press and strain until we can no longer resist. Roots break, the ground shifts, and we surrender. While messy, this process clears the way for God’s purpose to flourish, making room for the growth He has planned. Are there trees in your heart that God might be uprooting? Trust Him in the storm. He isn’t destroying you; He’s reshaping your landscape for something greater. If it feels like God is doing an uprooting in you right now, here are a few ways you can partner with God in his work: 1. Examine Your Heart Through Prayer Spend intentional time in prayer, asking God to reveal what He’s uprooting and why. Be open to hearing His voice about areas that need surrender or transformation. Scriptures like Psalm 139:23–24 (“Search me, God, and know my heart”) can guide your prayers. Journaling your thoughts and emotions during this process can also help you discern patterns and uncover areas God is working on. 2. Surrender and Let Go Uprooting often feels disruptive because it involves letting go of things we’ve grown attached to—dreams, habits, relationships, or identities. Trust that God’s plans are for your good, even if it means releasing what feels safe or familiar (Proverbs 3:5–6). Acknowledge your fears and ask for His grace to surrender what no longer serves His purpose for your life. 3. Embrace the New Season It's ok to remember the beauty of the old and appreciate it for what it was. But once the old has been uprooted, lean into what God wants to plant in its place. Look for the opportunities He’s opening up, whether it’s a new perspective, a new relationship, or a new calling. Stay grounded in His Word and connected to a community of faith that can encourage you as you grow into this new season (Isaiah 43:19). By being intentional in reflection, surrender, and embracing change, you align your heart with God’s transformative work, allowing Him to shape your life for His glory.
1 Comment
Kelly Jorgenson
1/27/2025 09:30:59 am
I love this so much. Thank you Kelsey! Spoke to me!!
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