Let the River Flow!

Daily Reading: John 7

“How is it that this man has learning, when he has never studied?” ... "Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” (John 7.15, 38)

Devotional Thought: "Who does he think he is?"  That question was not invented in the 21st Century.  People were asking it about Jesus 2000 years ago.  And Jesus had an answer for them then and for us now.

First of all, the religious thinkers were correct.  If we want to possess a right thinking which leads to right living we need to study!  How could we expect to correctly follow God and do his will without studying his word?  Be a student of the Bible and other Christian writings.  Attend to the teachings of God’s Word in sermons and lessons.  Take advantage of all sources of knowledge that you can.  Seek to constantly learn and understand.

We also, however, need to consider Jesus' answer.  There is a source of learning that goes beyond, beneath, and above conventional study. Jesus indicated as much when he said, “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” (John 7.38).  As you and I believe in Jesus and enter into a relationship with him, we will find that our learning grows beyond what we study!  We will be joined with the Source of Truth himself!  Then, he will be able to speak through us – in words and in actions – to a world hungry to know God.

So be encouraged, child of God!  You may not have studied at the finest Christian seminary, but you can avail yourself to God’s Word daily and to other sources of understanding.  Then, as you are connected to the Author of our faith, he will give you insight and wisdom that exceeds your study.  Joining the two, you will find that you are a source of truth to those seeking truth.

Let the river flow!

Prayer: I love your Word, O Lord.  Help me to be a wise student of your Word and to be a careful listener to your Spirit.  Show me, personally, I pray, your truth as I am in relationship with you.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: 35.1-8

1 Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me!

2 Take hold of shield and buckler and rise for my help!

3 Draw the spear and javelin against my pursuers! Say to my soul, "I am your salvation!"

4 Let them be put to shame and dishonor who seek after my life! Let them be turned back and disappointed who devise evil against me!

5 Let them be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the LORD driving them away!

6 Let their way be dark and slippery, with the angel of the LORD pursuing them!

7 For without cause they hid their net for me; without cause they dug a pit for my life.

8 Let destruction come upon him when he does not know it! And let the net that he hid ensnare him; let him fall into it--to his destruction!