For those who have cut into the trunk of a tree, they can attest to the many differing layers found. Starting from the outer bark, which acts as the tree’s protection from the outside world, to the cells which are in essence the tree’s pipeline; moving the much-needed nutrients and hydration throughout the trunk and outward to the branches and leaves. Finally arriving at the inner core and main support, interestingly called the heartwood. This is the central pillar of the tree and although dead in and of itself, will not lose strength or life so long as the other layers are intact and continue to feed the entire tree.

Much like a tree, a man also has many layers doesn’t he? From the outer layer that acts as a first defence from the world right down to his most inner protected place.

What exactly is this inner core of a man and how do we keep it alive? While these may seem like strange questions to ask ourselves, they surely are important ones we must cut into, so to speak.

The word Core is defined as ‘the Central or most important part’

What would our answer be if asked ‘What is your most important part?’ Pausing to truly reflect on this would likely bring us all to the same conclusion; the most important part of us is far greater than simply what we do or aspire to.

Yes, there is surely something within each man that is unique; something that acts as his true centre and pillar of strength.

Maybe it’s helpful to note that the word Core stems from the Latin noun COR, which means Heart

The Heart… It’s a pretty incredible thing, isn’t it? Pumping blood throughout the entire body, maintaining our heart rate and blood pressure; literally our life source and undoubtedly a very important part of a man’s existence. 

But deeper still is The Heart; our place of hope, desire and Courage; Interestingly, Courage also derived from the same root Cor and means ‘to have heart’ accompanied by Encourage, which means ‘to give heart’

Surely we can agree, all equally as critical to the blood running through our veins.

Yet, like a tree’s heartwood, this deeper heart is only kept alive through living roots and pipelines; without this and our outer armour, a man is truly dead within.

In Proverbs 4:23, we are encouraged above all else to ‘Guard our heart, for it is the wellspring of life’

While for most of us men, this place is largely hidden below many layers, we can be sure it exists and sustains us each and every day. It is truly our most important part

So then if our core is the deeper heart within; Core Roots really means… Heart Roots

Let’s take the necessary time needed to examine our heart; ensuring our roots are healthy and strong… our lives surely depend on it.