Thirsting for God

Welcome to Real Life.  Last week, God was pursuing us as the “Hound of Heaven.” This week, he’s water to thirsty souls.

God Speaks Series | Thirsting for God | Isaiah 55:1-2

Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters.
Not long ago, a friend said, “I’m so thirsty for God.”  It made me wonder why I wasn’t thirsty for God.  I was walking with him.  But, I wasn’t longing for him. 

Soon afterwards, my life was thrown into a period of turmoil.  My parents’ health was rapidly declining. One thing after another was going wrong. I could barely catch my breath. By the grace of God, we all survived. Now, my world is beginning to calm.

… and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!
And I’m flat broke. I’ve spent all my strength. I’m tired and weak. I’m thirsty for God.

Come buy wine and milk without money and without cost.
So, I come, just as I am–poor and broken. A willing heart is all that's needed. God’s Spirit, his fullness, his satisfaction is not reserved exclusively for the strong, mature saint. Jesus’ invitation is to all, “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” [1]

Why spend money on what is not bread and your labor on what does not satisfy?
His door is always open. However, I don’t always enter. Life's busy. I am distracted and preoccupied with family, friends, work, chores, writing, ministry, entertainment …  Life's full. But, does it satisfy? Nothing and no one can fill my empty soul like Jesus. 

Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live.
I’m coming, Lord.  I need to stop running for awhile. I want to sit at your table and feast on your Words. Speak to me, Lord. I’m quiet and I’m listening. Fill my empty soul with your love, your peace, and your truth. I’m hungry for the Real Life you offer. I’m so thirsty for you.

Water for thirsty souls…
  • Drink in God’s words.  To read the rest of Isaiah 55, click here.
  • Pour out your heart to God in prayer.  He’s the best listener.
  • Sit quietly and meditate on how deeply God loves you. Let his love saturate your dry soul. “…grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”(Eph. 3:18b-19)
  • Worship the Lord in spirit and in truth.  “I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin 
[1] Revelation 3:20 NLT

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