Like a Tree was born straight out of Psalm 1, where the psalmist paints the picture of a tree planted by streams of water; flourishing, fruitful, and steadfast.

For Graham, this image has always been deeply significant. It speaks of a life rooted in God, choosing not to walk in the ways of the wicked but instead delighting in the ways of the Lord. Psalm 1 is not just the beginning of the Psalms, but a clue to the whole collection: an invitation to sink our roots into the living water of God’s Word and the Spirit of God.

The song itself carries a joyful, folky feel, one that congregations quickly pick up and love to sing together. It’s filled with hope and promise: “Those who are like this tree, with roots by the stream, will bear fruit in every season. Their leaf will not wither, and whatever they do will prosper.“

As Graham puts it, “Well, that sounds pretty good to me.”