“all you who are thirsty, come to the waters…” -isaiah 55:1 (niv)
SOMETIMES WE FACE A DRY SEASON FILLED WITH PAIN, DISCOURAGEMENT, OR LOSS.
We feel dried out and weary as we limp along in life doing what is necessary while our heart feels empty. Those are the times to pray the promise of Isaiah 35:6:
Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.
Notice the verse uses the plural for streams. There are multiple sources of renewal in our lives and letting those streams flow over us provides opportunities or refreshment. Viewing all the different blessings in life is like seeing many streams that flow into an ocean or a lake.
If one stream dries up, others keep flowing. Tap into those streams when you need renewal and nurture them so they continue to flow in your life.
1. Spiritual streams are the blessings of God’s grace.
He restores us as we reflect on scriptures, receive forgiveness, and dive into prayer. List the blessings God has sent you and the times his grace has helped you through a difficult situation. As you thank God for blessings, your heart will be refreshed with gratitude.
2. Physical streams renew our body as we eat healthy, exercise, and spend time in nature.
Creation reminds us that life changes and new growth starts again. Revisit your favorite outdoor places such as the ocean, parks, gardens, or a bubbling stream. Reawaken your body with a massage or other spa treatment. As you renew your body, you will also renew your energy. As you rejoice in creation, you will rediscover beauty.
3. Relational streams allow us to share laughter and tears, joys and sorrows.
Call or spend time with someone who listens, empathizes, motivates you, and makes you smile. Open your heart to the love of friends who will help you dream again and move forward. Let them replenish the emptiness in your heart. As you allow the love of others to flow into your heart, you will rejuvenate your emotions.
4. Mental streams engage your mind with knowledge and ideas that challenge you to think and plan.
Fill your mind with a great book, interesting lecture, or engaging conversation. As you focus your mind on new thoughts, you will revive your mind and rethink your goals to find new purpose and direction.
May going and drinking from streams that gush and burst forth in your desert time get you leaping and shouting for joy again.
