Life-giving Water

A person’s words can be life-giving water;words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook.

Proverbs 18:4

As I read this, it stirs my heart with a deep desire to have such a refreshing stream flow from my life. How about you? What is the source? How do we become filled with refreshing words? According to John 7:37-39, Jesus said, “‘If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, . . . streams of living water will flow from within him.’ By this he meant the Spirit” (NIV). That’s the secret. Let’s look at three steps to take.

1. Come to Jesus. Spend time with him privately, unhurriedly, allowing his Spirit to fill and refresh you. Many Christians settle for only an occasional sip of Jesus. Developing a personal quiet time with the Lord can be the most wonderful, life-changing thing you will ever do. If you don’t have this, I’d love to help. Go to my website, BibleBusStop.com. I’ve posted a message that will walk you through some practical steps.
2. Feed your faith! As you spend time with the Lord, your confidence builds. Learn his promises. The Holy Spirit will then prompt you to trust his promises. If there’s a commandment, do it! Where there’s instruction, obey it. Put feet to your faith.
3. Lastly, there is the flow. This is what Jesus promised would happen. When you have come to him, listened to his Word, are walking in the Spirit and truth, you are filled. Then you will be God’s vessel ready to pour out. That’s when you’ll see his wisdom, love, and refreshing words flow life-giving refreshment through you to others.

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

Let’s look at this promise in John 7:37-39 again. Jesus said, “‘If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, . . . streams of living water will flow from within him.’ By this he meant the Spirit” (NIV). Are you thirsty, truly wanting to live differently, fully, and richly? God is ready, if you are.

Let’s Pray

Lord, I realize I have often come to you for merely material things and physical help. Forgive me. I come to you now eager and thirsty. Please fill and overflow me with your refreshing, living water.

One Year Bible Reading

2 Kings 15:1–16:20; Acts 19:13-41; Psalm 147:1-20; Proverbs 18:4-5