Root Bound

“Thou preparest room before it, and didst cause it to take deep root, and it filled the land.” (Psalm 80:9)

The plant looks perfectly fine but turning the pot over, roots are poking through the drainage holes. It may be root-bound, and if planted in the ground, its roots stay within those tight circular confines, never spreading to the surrounding soil—stunted. There are two ways to help a root-bound plant: Gently “tease” the roots to loosen before planting, or, if they are too entangled, a more drastic measure is needed. Make vertical slits in the sides of the root ball with a sharp instrument and slice a deep x in the bottom of the root ball before planting. Once the roots have breathing room, they find their way into the surrounding soil.

You’re stuck, not moving backward, yet not moving forward. Every way you turn, you face a barrier. You may be root-bound, just like the pot plant. If you’re unsure how you got this way, ask God what caused you to spiral within a confined area—He wants your life to be productive. Maybe you’ve stopped reading and listening to God’s Word, and your “roots” are searching for nutrients, but your negligence has them bound. Ask God to loosen the matted mess that is choking your life spiritually; if precision cuts are needed, the discomfort is worth the outcome. As each root untangles, ask for forgiveness (if needed) and wisdom as you delve into God’s Word for counsel and nourishment to grow. Once you are tangle-free and reach deep into the rich, fertile soil God has prepared, you will flourish and produce fruit for His glory. Just as God did what was needed for the Israelites to fill the land of Canaan, He will establish you for productiveness.