Like A Tree by Streams of Water

He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. . .

Psalm l:3

Living through several years of drought in California gave me a new appreciation for rain.  I used to think of rain as just a nuisance, something that would spoil my plans for a tennis match or a hike.  Those who have lived in drought conditions remember the changes that occur — landscaping dies as strict water rationing is enforced; the hillsides that were once lush and green turn dry and brown, and the danger of fire increases dramatically. Things we once took for granted, like washing the car, taking long showers, even flushing the toilet after every use, become strongly discouraged luxuries.

            Have you ever experienced a spiritual drought?  God seems far away.  The desire to spend time with Him is gone.  The time spent with Him out of sheer obedience seems unproductive and ineffective.  I remember times like that when I even began to question whether or not I am really a Christian.  Surely a true Christian would not feel so out of touch with God or have so little desire for fellowship with Him.  Unfortunately, the problem is magnified as we follow our feelings and choose to isolate ourselves, not only from God, but from church, Christian friends or other opportunities for fellowship.

            Many have experienced this feeling of distance from God at some time in their Christian life.  For me personally, it has been the result of disobedience.  I made the choice to go my own way instead of listening to God. I began to think that God wouldn’t even want me to come back to Him.  I didn’t deserve to ask Him for help.

            These thoughts could not be further from the truth. One thing is certain:  God does not intend for us to continue in spiritual drought. Scriptures tell us that God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22).  If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).  Jesus told the parable of the prodigal son whose father welcomed him back with great joy (Luke 15:11-24). 

            Isaiah 41:17-20 clearly shows God’s desire to restore life to our dry and thirsty souls:

The poor and needy are seeking water, but there is none, and their tongues are parched with thirst; I, the Lord, will answer them Myself; as the God of Israel, I will not abandon them.  I will open rivers on the bare heights, and springs in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land fountains of water…that they may see and recognize, and consider and gain insight as well, that the hand of the Lord has done this, and the Holy One of Israel has created it.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Is your current walk with the Lord better characterized by “spring rain” or “drought?”  If your answer is “spring rain,” take time now to thank God for the refreshing sense of His presence you are enjoying.

If your answer is “drought,” ask the Lord to reveal anything that needs to be confessed and forgiven.   Ask Him what He wants to teach you during the drought period.  These desert experiences can provide rich times of learning. Trust that He will restore you in His time and create fountains of renewal and refreshment.  Write your prayer of response to Him.