“This is what the LORD says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves of the sea.” (Isaiah 48:17-18) Water is mentioned over 700 times in 50 of the 66 books of the Bible. It symbolizes many things: God’s Word … eternal life … protection …cleansing …. peace …. promises. Water sustains us and keeps us alive. Without it, we’ll die. It surprised me, then, to learn that when the Israelites entered the Promised Land there was so little water there. It wasn’t at all what they expected. I wondered why He chose that land and then I realized it was all about trust. It reminded me of all the dry periods in my own life; times when I thought I was alone before I knew Jesus. I didn’t know about the Living Water that could refresh me and free me from self-pity and despair. And the times of impatience because I didn’t trust His timing. And most definitely the times I chose not to pay attention to His commands. Like the Israelites entering the Promised Land, I, too, had to learn to trust Him when situations looked impossible and hopeless. Today, like the ripple effect of the waves of the sea, God’s Living Water sustains me, teaches me, and guides me. “…. Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life." (Revelation 22:17) Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for every lesson Your Word teaches me. Help me to never lose the thirst I feel for wanting to know You and worship You more. Help me to trust and see You in everything, wherever I am today. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I will let You guide me to the still waters. In Your holy name, I praise and thank You. |