Evergreen or Broadleaf?

I love autumn. Along with the beauty of the trees, I also enjoy the sunny days and the cool nights. I love to see the bright orange and red leaves on the trees. But, have you ever noticed that most evergreens (pines, cedars, furs, etc.) don’t change, even in the coldest months? Do you know why they don’t? 

From some online research I found that as foliage is concerned, they have to have protection to survive the cold months of the oncoming winter. The tissue of leaves on most trees is too tender to withstand icy nights. So, during autumn, plants either have to toughen up to protect their leaves or dispose of the leaves. 

Evergreens toughen up, so they are able to keep their needles. On the outside, they have a thick wax coating that resists freezing. They also have substance inside of them that fights freezing. 

However, the leaves of broadleaved trees do not have the same thick coating, and the cells on the inside are watery and will easily freeze. The tree has to seal off and shed these leaves to ensure winter survival. It makes me consider how tough am I? 

Does God want me to “toughen up” like an evergreen? I strongly believe so. He has provided everything we need to survive the harshest nights. Psalm 28:7 NLT says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” What a perfect verse for this season. Remember, the nights may be longer and colder. But allow the Lord to be your inner strength and know that, just like the thick coating of wax on the outside of the evergreens, He is your shield. So, be sure to sing Him a song of Thanksgiving.