Megan Evans, Women’s Ministry Director, LHBC
Psalm 42:1-2 (NIV)
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?”
No wonder I find myself burdened and panting at times, I’m thirsty for you Lord! Yet this thirst can be a good thing when we let it point us to Jesus. Much like physical thirst tells the body it needs water, our spiritual thirst indicates we need time with God. We were made to crave fellowship with Jesus, and no other means will quench our soul’s thirst than the living water that God provides through His Son Jesus Christ. Christ alone is the wellspring of this living water (John 4:10), and Jesus tells us to remain, or abide in Him (John 15:4). But what do we do on days we thirst and feel out of touch with God?
The world promises fulfillment in all kinds of areas, but leaves our soul empty because only the peace of mind and heart that Jesus gives will quench and satisfy (John 14:27). Daily Jesus wants to be our sustainer and provider. Will you meet Him at the well today? Here you will find not only the promise of eternal salvation, but the promise of daily hydration of your soul by spending time with God, talking and listening to Him, and reading His Word. In Him we will thirst no more.
We don’t have to live in thirst or go searching for a stream. We can spend time with God anywhere, anytime. In a week of unpredictable schedules and busyness, it is easy to push time with God next on our to-do list. I love how our key verse is stated in The Message, “A white-tailed deer drinks from the creek; I want to drink God, deep draughts of God.” Have you been there? When we finally put aside the daily tasks and to-do lists that are dehydrating us and retreat for even a few precious moments alone with God, our soul begins to gulp. I can remember my children coming in for a cup of water after playing outside on hot summer days. They would be so thirsty that they would drink big gulps without stopping, sometimes even letting water spill out of the corners of their mouths and down their faces before racing back outside. That is a deep draught. Jesus pours out his peace, love, and joy and our cup runs over. Life is physically draining, emotionally draining, and even spiritually draining at times; we need to stay hydrated. Take big gulps today in prayer and by reading His Word, and bask in God’s presence. Lay down the to-do list, and let the love of Jesus wash over you today.
PRAYER FOR TODAY:
Dear Lord, you are my source of life and breath. Make me aware when tasks and distractions take priority over my time with you. You alone hydrate and satisfy my soul. In Jesus name, Amen.
MEMORY VERSE OF THE WEEK:
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.