Roots

Taking a look outside I see the snow gone, the ground has soaked up lots of moisture over the last week with rain coming almost every day; and it looks like it will continue with rain in the forecast for the next week also.
It's Spring and the April showers are what brings the May flowers.

But what's most vital about these rains is the replenishing of the soil and the ability of the roots to have moisture to supply the life of the plant.

Roots...the greatest need is the health of the roots, for the health of the plant above, on the surface - that which is outward appearance and where fruit appears - all depends on the health of the roots.

Paul says to his young Timothy:
1 Timothy 4:7-8 (NIV)
⁷  Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.
⁸  For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

Train yourself.
Our relationship with God through Jesus is free...we don't have to earn anything, do anything, other than place our trust for salvation in Him.
But the fruit to follow...that's our work in connection with the work of the Holy Spirit within us.
Train yourself...
Enter into the necessary means of good connections.

Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)
⁶  So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him,
⁷  rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Connections...dig down deep into Christ and allow our roots to go deeply into Him.  Soak up the Holy Spirit in taking in God's word, and allowing it to shape us, speaking truth in love to us, and learning the joy of obedience.
This life of training is intentional and will be rewarding as we learn to trust and obey.

Peace