Journey to the Sherman Tree: Trusting God in the Climb
This past Saturday, I walked out a dream and vision that unfolded as a testament to God’s majesty, guidance, and purpose. What began as a journey toward what seemed like an island turned into an ascent up a mountain—a climb that mirrored life’s challenges and triumphs. This mountain was not just physical; it was a spiritual symbol of the process of trusting God through uncertain terrain, steep inclines, and moments of doubt.
We were driving toward the oldest tree on earth—the Sherman Tree. The journey felt daunting, just as my dream had revealed. In the dream, the climb took us to an elevation of 7,000 feet, mirroring the steep hills we faced in reality. At every turn, there was the question: Would we make it? My brother appeared in the dream as an 8-year-old—his age representing new beginnings, as the number 8 does in biblical significance. He was fearful of the climb, as was my nephew, whose age (6, soon to be 7) represented completion leading to spiritual perfection. Yet, despite the fear, we pressed onward.
The challenges grew as we ascended higher. Just as the road grew steeper, so did the uncertainty. Don’t look down—it’s a long way down. This echoed through both the dream and our waking experience. On the other side of the mountain, we found a desolate, dry place—a reminder that sometimes what lies beyond the climb may not be what we expect. But the lesson was clear: There’s no going back. The climb demands we move forward, trusting the process even when the outcome is unseen.
When we reached the snow-covered summit and faced slippery ground, the real challenge began. We fell—but not in defeat. My nephew fell once, my sister three times, and I once. Yet I positioned myself on the ice, knowing that sliding down would take me closer to the goal. No one was hurt, either in the dream or in reality, because the skills learned in the climb—the wisdom God provides—carried us through.
Coming off the mountain was more than a physical descent; it was a mental and spiritual experience. As I sat in the passenger seat, reflecting on the dream’s meaning, I was struck by the profound truth that trusting God expands our understanding of faith and strengthens our resolve. The destination—the Sherman Tree—was worth every challenge. Hugging this tree revealed how vast God is in comparison to our limitations. What feels impossible to us is nothing for Him.
This journey reminded me that God can handle all that we are. He goes before us, preparing the places we will go (John 14:2). Yet, He also provides us a place in Him—a refuge, a guide, and a source of strength. The climb may be steep, the journey uncertain, but the purpose is divine. We just have to walk it out with faith.
In this season of new beginnings, I am reminded of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This is not just a verse—it is a truth to live by. The climb, the falls, the uncertainty—all of it works together for God’s plan. His power is beyond comprehension, and His love is greater than we can imagine.
ScarGifts exists to encourage you in your journey—to remind you that you are not alone. Just as Jesus goes before us, preparing the way, He also walks alongside us, ensuring we are equipped for the climb. Trust the process. Go forward boldly. Know that the God who created the Sherman Tree, the mountains, and the storms is the same God who created you and is guiding you every step of the way.
Scarlett's Gifts 