John 7:38-39a - [Jesus said] "Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'" Now this He said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive ....
It's that time of year again for me: time to get in shape. It seems every time I go to the doctor lately he says things like, "Everything looks okay, but you could lose a little weight." Thanks, doc, like I didn't see that myself. And, of course, then I tell him about the aches and pains that come with getting back in shape, then he gives me the old chorus line: "That's what comes with getting older." Oh, yes, and there's one more thing he tells me: "If you want some help with that working out thing—running, lifting weights—then remember to drink lots of water!"
Drink deeply a half hour before you work out or run. Why? You are going to need it.
There is power in being satisfied with the spiritual blessings that come from Jesus Christ alone. He said it, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink" (John 7:7b). Yes, how bold, yes, but how clear and to the point! Some might call it "arrogance" to say such a thing. But, if you can deliver what you offer, if you offer it as a gift, and you offer it to all who ask—that's not arrogance, that's grace. And that is the forgiveness, life, and salvation that Jesus is offering to you and to me today.
He knows what it is like to be parched in this sinful world. Even though He was sinless, even though He had a perfect harmony with the Heavenly Father by His own righteousness, He entered our brokenness. He took on our pain. He entered the dark places of our sin and rebellion. Why? It was in order to give us living water to drink, living water to empower our new life with Him, living water to satisfy our thirst for God's righteousness, justice, and peace. He knows the water He gives can quench that thirst: it's faith in Him as your Savior.
Have you ever been on a long run or a strenuous hike where you pushed yourself beyond what your body was capable of doing? I've had those days when I barely made it back from the run or when I went out to exercise in heat and humidity that was overwhelming. At the end of that kind of exercise, it would be crazy to even consider coffee or soft drinks or alcohol. What tastes best then? It's lots of water. Wow! There are times in life when you know it's true: it's back to the basics with everything.
So, if you are struggling at the moment, kind of lost in life, or feeling emotionally parched, it's time to get connected to Jesus through the truth of the Bible. There's a message of grace, love, and life that will quench your ultimate thirst. Keep listening with me, and we'll drink this living water of life together.
WE PRAY: Dear Lord Jesus, give me the kind of faith, hope, and love that flows out of my life because I know and trust You as my Lord and Savior. Amen.
From "Drink Deeply; You are Going to Need It!" a devotion by Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, former Speaker of The Lutheran Hour
Reflection Questions:
1. When was the last time you worked up a sweat enough to crave water?
2. How can "rivers of living water" flow from a Christian's heart to others?
3. Sometimes a quick sip of water is all we need. How do you tap into God's Word in brief, rewarding ways?
Today's Bible Readings: Genesis 27-28 Matthew 18:21-35
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