The Green Bay Tree: When Power Seems Unshakable
The Wicked Will Not Always Prosper
I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found. Psalm 37:35-36
In times of turmoil and injustice, it can feel as though the wicked flourish unchecked. Their power seems immovable, their influence sprawling like a green bay tree that casts its shadow over the land. Yet, as Psalm 37 reminds us, their reign is temporary. Though they rise and spread, their fall is certain, and soon, they will be nowhere to be found. This truth is both a comfort and a challenge for those of us who feel the weight of current injustices.
Right now, many Americans are grappling with uncertainty and pain. Executive orders have rolled back protections for marginalized groups, creating widespread fear and instability. Federal agencies are in turmoil, with mass resignations and forced departures shaking institutions once thought secure. Workers are left without clear futures, families are struggling under the weight of economic uncertainty, and businesses—particularly in border states—are bracing for the impact of new tariffs that will drive up costs for everyday consumers.
In the midst of this upheaval, compassion seems to be in short supply. There are those who not only turn a blind eye to suffering but openly celebrate the misfortunes of others. Some of these voices come from within the Christian community, where political allegiance has, for some, taken precedence over the call to love and serve others. Proverbs 16:18 warns that pride goes before destruction, and Psalm 37:35-36 paints a sobering picture of those who seem untouchable in their power, only to vanish without a trace.
As believers, we are called to respond differently. In a world where arrogance and indifference often dominate, we must choose humility and faith. The green bay tree may stand tall for a season, but its roots are not eternal. Justice will come, and righteousness will prevail. Until then, we must remain steadfast—choosing kindness over cruelty, faith over fear, and hope over despair.
The question we must ask ourselves is this: Will we be among those who place their trust in fleeting power, or will we stand firm, knowing that God alone is our refuge in troubled times?
Resisting the Green Bay Tree’s Shadow
1 Peter 5:5-6 tells us, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” James 4:6-7 echoes this sentiment: “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” These verses reveal an often-overlooked truth—pride fuels the wicked, but humility invites God’s grace and power.
The call to humility does not mean passivity. It’s not about lying down and accepting injustice. Rather, it’s about aligning ourselves with God’s will and trusting in His timing. The proud may rise quickly, but their foundation is sand. God’s resistance to their pride ensures that their power will crumble. Our humility, meanwhile, positions us to receive the grace we need to persevere and resist the evil in our midst.
A Nuanced Perspective on “Pray for Those in Power”
Much has been said about praying for those in authority, as 1 Timothy 2:1-2 instructs. But let’s be clear: this does not mean endorsing wickedness or remaining silent in the face of oppression. To pray for those in power is to pray for God’s will to be done—for justice to prevail, for hearts to be softened, and for prideful leaders to either repent or be removed. Prayer is not a passive act; it is a weapon of spiritual warfare. When we pray, we align ourselves with the power of heaven to tear down strongholds.
Speaking to the Frightened and the Marginalized
For those who are afraid, know this: God sees you. He sees the injustice, the fear, the suffering. Psalm 37:39-40 says, “But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him.”
It may seem like those who wield power with cruelty are unstoppable, but their dominion is fleeting. What they have built on arrogance and oppression will not stand. God is not indifferent to your pain—He is present, He is just, and He is faithful. The pages of history and Scripture remind us that no empire of injustice endures forever.
If you feel powerless, know that your faith is a force greater than any temporary power structure. Do not let fear silence you. Your voice matters, your prayers matter, and your actions matter. When the enemy attempts to overshadow you with despair, resist him. Stand firm in truth, in justice, and in love. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). Even in troubled times, His presence is your refuge, and His justice is certain.
Finding Our Role
This is not a time for complacency or despair. It is a time for courage, wisdom, and action. Seek God’s wisdom daily, and ask Him how you can be a light in this dark season. Perhaps it’s through advocating for justice, comforting the fearful, or simply speaking the truth boldly. Whatever your role, remember that God has equipped you for this moment.
Yet, as we seek righteousness, we must also examine our own hearts. Have we allowed pride to creep in? Do we find satisfaction in others' suffering, even if we believe they deserve it? Scripture warns us that such pride leads to destruction. Proverbs 24:17-18 cautions:
17 Do not gloat when your enemy falls;
when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice,
18 or the Lord will see and disapprove
and turn his wrath away from them.
If we claim to follow Christ, we must reflect His heart—a heart that grieves over sin but also desires redemption. We cannot let arrogance and self-righteousness harden us. Instead, let us walk in humility, extending grace even as we pursue justice.
The green bay tree may spread its branches, but its roots are shallow. Soon, it will pass away, and no one will remember where it stood. Hold onto this truth as you navigate these challenging times, and let Psalm 37:35-36 remind you that God’s justice will prevail.
Ndikhokhele Bawo - Guide me, O Lord
This song is in Xhosa and is based on Psalm 31. The video has English subtitles
Lyrics
intro
Zundikhokhele, ezinsizini
Lead me oh Father
Bawo Bawo Bawo
Father, Father, Father
Bawo ndiyabonga ngoba usandigcinile
Father I thank you for you still protect me
chorus
(Ndikhokhele Bawo) zundikhokhele
Lead me oh Father
(Ndikhokhele Mveli wami) ezinsizini
Lead me to my heritage , In distress
(Zalomhlaba Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo
In all the sorrows of this world Father
Bawo ndiyabonga ngoba usandigcinile
Father I thank you for you still protect me
chorus
(Ndikhokhele Bawo) zundikhokhele
Lead me oh Father
(Ndikhokhele Mveli wami) ezinsizini
Lead me to my heritage , In distress
(Zalomhlaba Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo
In all the sorrows of this world Father
Bawo ndiyabonga ngoba usandigcinile
Father I thank you for you still protect me
chorus
(Zalomhlaba Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo
In all the sorrows of this world Father
Bawo ndiyabonga ngoba usandigcinile
Father I thank you for you still protect me
(Zalomhlaba Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo (Bawo) Bawo
In all the sorrows of this world Father
Bawo ndiyabonga ngoba usandigcinile
Father I thank you for you still protect me
hook (3x)
Ndinotenda Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba)
Thank you Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba)
Baba ndinotenda nekuti muno ndijengeta
Baba, I'm grateful because I'm here for you
Ndinotenda Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba)
Thank you Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba)
Ndinotenda Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba)
Thank you Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba), Baba (Baba)
Baba ndinotenda nekuti muno ndijengeta
Baba, I'm grateful because I'm here for you
Writer(s): Traditional, Sibusiso Mthembu
Beloved, I hope this week’s post has brought you comfort in this weary world and inspired you to take action. I encourage you to subscribe and explore the companion devotional, which contains meditative scriptures and intercessory prayers for the nation.
