Encouragement

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Every living thing on Earth requires water…plants, animals, humans. Without it, we will not only cease to grow, but we will wither and die. Our area has seen an unusually dry summer this year. Looking around at the brown grass and trees prematurely loosing their leaves reminds me of the importance of water. We may be just now seeing the effects of the drought, but the damage has been happening for a while…

At first the soil becomes dry, then the vegetation begins to wither, then the dust and deteriorating plants spread through the air becoming an irritant to those who breath it in.

The same is true for us in our Spiritual lives. The bible compares water to the Holy Spirit…sent to regenerate and purify us. When we go too long without it, the damage begins to show on the inside long before others may notice. But if left unchecked, we become an offense and irritant to everyone around us.

At first, we may not thirst after His word. Personal times of prayer and study begin to diminish. So far, this is not too apparent on the outside. But then, the desire to be in fellowship with other believers may wane. The joy of His Spirit begins to evaporate and we become less fruitful… Now it’s starting to show. The smallest of inconveniences start to bring out the worst in us. Patience is no longer available. We are becoming irritable and irritating those around us. It’s official…we are drying up!!!

But, there is good news for the Christian in drought!!! While the earth is dependant upon the rains to fall from heaven to replenish it, we who are saved possess the water from within. There is no need for drought to those who have partaken from the rivers of life! Jesus said “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." John 7:38

Praise the Lord! We can begin to reverse the effects of this dry season when we choose! But, it takes effort on our part. When we are thirsty for too long, we become weak. It may be harder to praise, harder to study His word…but press in and ask Jesus for a fresh drink. We know that as our Father, God will not withhold any good thing from His children. 1 John 5:14 tells us ”This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.”

If you have begun to notice any of the signs of drought in your Spiritual life, act now! Cry out to God for refreshing. Don’t let it get to the point of offense. We know that a dry branch will burn up in the fires of life much quicker and easier than a green one. Soak up His presence so that you will have it and be protected. As Ephesians 5:26 instructs us, wash yourself in the word. Remove the dust and impurities that have accumulated during the dryness.

Once you've quenched the thirst, keep drinking! Allow His Spirit to fill you completely. Clear, deep water gives a greater reflection. Allow His rivers of life to flow from within and wash over you so that your life can once again reflect the light and glory of God!

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