God’s Nourishing River of Life

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said,
‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”
John 7:38 English Standard Version

This photo was taken near Camp Shady Brook in Deckers, Colorado.  What struck me was that the river flows around the growth in the center and surrounds it with nourishment, yet the waters do not overwhelm it.  Trees and vegetation border the river, and their roots drink in sustenance so that they may not perish in the heat, dryness and punishing sun.  The roots of trees and plants will grow and strain toward the water, so that they may be fed.

As humans, we need food and water for basic sustenance, but often fail to seek the free living water and provision Christ alone can provide.  We feed our human body, but neglect our soul.

When our heart is ravished by the Holy Spirit, our true passion and humanity is free to bestow gifts of forgiveness, grace and love upon others.  Our spirit in turn is also renewed and uplifted through the blessing of others. Christ’s river of life flows through us and around us.

Occasionally, downpours cause the stream to overflow, or the river’s movement becomes restricted due to impediment or drought.  Eventually, the flood waters recede, the obstruction is removed, or the nourishing rains begin to fall.  The foliage once again begins to grow and thrive as intended.

Sometimes we feel overwhelmed or stunted in our life, as if God deluges us or leaves us high and dry.  Be rest-assured that He will never leave you in the drought or let the flood waters envelope you.   His benevolent sustaining stream of life will once again lift you up.

Lord, let me drink in Your living water each and every day, so that I may let it flow through me to those around me!

Photo and text copyright Darcia Kunkel