⁸ Though its root may grow old in the earth,
And its stump may die in the ground,

⁹ Yet at the scent of water it will bud
And bring forth branches like a plant.

Though a tree is cut down, it's root will grow old and its stump die, the "scent" of water will revive and it will become alive once again. The "cut down" tree is like a lost soul/backsliders that we need to reach out to and bring them into the presence of God where the "scent" of the living water revives a dead soul. We should never give up hope on anyone that God can revive, no matter how old they are. God is a God who resets and God of many chances. He is the river of Life. He floods his "scent" in His house every time we worship. Its never too late for Him to catch hold of His people. For in the presence of God is where hearts are healed, the broken reconciled.