where waves grow sweet

One day several years ago, I was standing in the misty, green hills of Georgia, drinking in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. From my mouth poured earnest gratitude for nature and how unbelievably nourishing and refreshing it is to my soul. I will never forget the response the Lord spoke into my heart: “That is exactly what my people are supposed to be in this world: A drink of fresh, pure water, just like nature is to you.”

It thrilled me to think that we could be that kind of refreshment to others. I mean, wow! But I also saw in that moment that what we give has to be pure. Our own understanding and opinions will inevitably pollute what we give and turn people away from the true nourishment that comes from the untainted love and wisdom of God.

But we were made for this. Our innermost being has a constant flow of living water that will never run out. It will always quench and revive us when we walk to the river’s edge and feel its spray on our face, hear its roar, watch its movement, cup our hands to drink it in. It will cleanse and purify all that is sullied. This living water transforms us into a people who not only have what the world needs, but are what the world needs. People whose very presence provides rest and refreshment to the weary and thirsty. How amazing is that?? So let us drink deeply from Him, allowing His presence to revive our weary souls, and continue to become what we were made to be: A drink of fresh, pure water to a thirsty world. 

“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.'” John 7:37

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. James 3:17