Fruitful Trees, the Spirit's Sowing

“Fruitful Trees, the Spirit’s Sowing” is a thoughtful and richly biblical hymn written by Timothy Dudley-Smith, one of the most respected Anglican hymn writers of the twentieth century. The hymn reflects deeply on the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, using the biblical image of fruit bearing trees to describe Christian character shaped by God’s grace. Dudley-Smith’s text is firmly rooted in Scripture and carefully crafted for congregational singing, combining theological clarity with poetic restraint.

The central image of the hymn comes from the teaching of the Apostle Paul on the fruit of the Spirit. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, and self control are presented not as human achievements, but as the natural result of the Spirit’s work within believers. By likening Christians to fruitful trees, the hymn emphasizes growth that is organic, steady, and dependent on God’s sustaining presence rather than human effort alone.

Another strong biblical foundation of the hymn is found in the imagery of Psalm 1 and the words of Jesus in John 15. Believers are described as those who are rooted in God’s word and abiding in Christ, drawing life and nourishment from Him. Fruitfulness is shown to be the evidence of true spiritual life and faithful discipleship. Dudley-Smith carefully avoids moralism, pointing instead to the Spirit as the source of all genuine spiritual growth.

The tone of the hymn is prayerful and instructive. It encourages self examination without discouragement, reminding worshipers that growth in holiness is God’s work carried out over time. The hymn gently calls believers to openness and obedience, asking that the Spirit would continue His work of shaping Christlike character in every aspect of life.

“Fruitful Trees, the Spirit’s Sowing” remains valued because it teaches profound spiritual truth in a clear and singable form. It helps the church reflect on the work of the Holy Spirit, the nature of Christian growth, and the calling to bear fruit that glorifies God and blesses others.