The rings of a tree tell a story. A skilled dendrologist—a scientist who studies the structure of trees—can examine the rings of a 2,000-year-old Redwood and uncover the history of its existence. Within each ring, they might find evidence of drought, seasons of abundance, and even scars from fire. Yet, through it all, the Redwood persists, growing stronger with each challenge. Its thick, fire-resistant bark learns to embrace fire as an ally rather than an enemy. When flames pass through, they knock down underbrush and enrich the soil, creating space for new growth. For some coniferous trees like the Redwood, fire becomes the very catalyst for regeneration, cracking open pine cones and releasing seeds that will carry on its legacy.

How much more complex, resilient, and wonderful are you? Infinitely more so. And how much more important is the story you’re meant to tell? Incomparably so. It’s only just beginning.

Seasons of Drought, Plenty, and Fire: Lessons in Every Stage

The rings of a tree remind us that no season lasts forever, and yet each season has its purpose. In our lives, we experience seasons of drought, plenty, and fire. Each has its challenges, yet each provides unique opportunities for learning and growth. For each season, here are some simple reflections to consider:

• Drought: Limited resources, stalled growth, and a lack of new opportunities can mark seasons of drought. Growth seems to plateau, and we may feel isolated or unproductive. In these seasons, remember:
  • Trust the process – Drought seasons deepen our roots, forcing us to draw on inner strength we might not otherwise find.
  • Seek small victories – Even small gains can provide hope and encouragement.
  • Remember your purpose – A solid foundation will carry you through, even when the surface looks dry.
• Fire: Life’s fires may come as personal tragedies, loss, false accusations, or other sudden upheavals. Just as flames in a forest clear the way for new growth, these trials reveal what is most essential. In seasons of fire:
  • Let go of what no longer serves – Some parts of our lives may need to be left behind, creating space for new growth.
  • Lean into relationships – Fire draws people together; let your community support and walk with you.
  • Focus on what remains – A fire can feel all-consuming, but it reveals the solid, enduring aspects of our character and faith.
• Plenty: Abundance is a season of expansion, opportunity, and harvest. While it may be the most welcome, it requires careful stewardship. To make the most of this season:
  • Share the harvest – Generosity amplifies abundance; as you are blessed, look for ways to bless others.
  • Strengthen your roots – Use this time to reinforce your foundation, investing in skills, relationships, and wisdom for future seasons.
  • Stay grounded in gratitude – Gratitude keeps success from leading to pride and reminds us of the purpose behind every opportunity.

What Do the Rings of Your Life Tell You?

Like a Redwood, each of us grows through seasons that leave their mark on us. Reflecting on your own growth rings can reveal the turning points of your life, the moments that shaped who you are today. Take some time to identify the ten most pivotal events or moments that have influenced you—moments like marriage, having children, a career shift, the loss of a loved one, moving to a new place, or even a difficult childhood.

With each event, consider the type of season it represented: Was it a season of drought (internal struggle), fire (external pressure), or plenty (growth)? Then, ask yourself:

• If it was a fire, how did you emerge stronger?
• If it was a drought, what sustained you through it?
• If it was a season of growth, how did you steward what you were blessed with?

Setting Fireproof Goals That Stand the Test of Time

Now that you’ve reflected on your growth rings, let’s look ahead. Each of these seasons will likely come again in one form or another, but by setting goals rooted in purpose, you can make sure that your life’s work will stand the test of time. Think of these as “fireproof” goals, grounded in values that endure.

Why do we sometimes focus our energy on goals that, when faced with “fires,” burn to ashes? Many of us set our sights on achievements that are easily singed by hardship or stress. Scripture reminds us to “set your mind on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2) and warns that “the fire will test the quality of each person’s work” (1 Corinthians 3:13). Fires are intended to refine, not destroy, what truly matters. If our goals are rooted in purpose and identity, they will only grow stronger in the face of challenges.

When our purpose is clear and our goals align with it, life’s fires serve to refine us. They burn away distractions, draw out what’s most essential, and reveal where our real strength lies. This focus, guided by something beyond circumstances, gives us the power to withstand whatever storms or flames life may bring.

Anchoring Purpose Beyond Circumstance

The Apostle Paul’s life gives us a powerful example of anchoring purpose beyond circumstance. In Romans 15, he writes of his mission with clarity: to proclaim the Gospel, even to those who have never heard it before. Paul’s commitment went beyond personal success; he knew that even if he were shipwrecked, imprisoned, or martyred, his mission would endure. His purpose was fireproof because it was rooted in something greater than himself.

Paul’s example reminds us that when our purpose transcends our circumstances and taps into something eternal, we can maintain hope even in the darkest seasons. Whether facing imprisonment or shipwreck, Paul saw every hardship as an opportunity for growth, both for himself and for the Gospel. His life encourages us to find strength in a purpose that endures, allowing us to bear fruit in every season.

Embrace the Fire and Bear Fruit

Just as the Redwood’s purpose—bearing fruit and regenerating through generations—remains constant through each season, our purpose can do the same. In fact, it's the heat of the fire that allows the purpose of the redwood to unlock. You too have had fire-shaped seasons that have helped to form you and even unlock pieces of your destiny.

Seasons of drought, fire, and plenty come and go, but our ultimate reason for being doesn’t shift with the wind. To thrive, you need to understand why you’re here on earth and anchor yourself in that purpose.

If understanding more of who you are and what you’re capable of is of interest, we work with trained coaches who help clients unlock the ultimate sources of motivation and productivity. Get in touch with us today to set up a free consultation and explore our coaching options. You’ll find that your legacy, like the mighty Redwood, is designed not just to endure but to thrive, rooted in a purpose that flames don't destroy, but enrich.