Scripture for Today: John 7:38 “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'” (ESV)

In a perfect world, a fire hydrant would never run dry. It is inconceivable that a fire hydrant would not deliver the water so desperately needed. However, during the recent wildfires in California that is exactly what happened in some areas. The water storage tanks supplying those hydrants went dry. Planes were grounded due to the strong winds. And without the water and chemical airdrops the municipal water systems could not keep up with the high demand. How awful it must have been to realize the hydrants were of no help!

Today’s verse describes another source of water. Jesus, who calls Himself the Giver of living water, promised this to the woman at the well. (John 4:10) For those who have placed their faith in Christ, it is also promised as we are the “whosoever” that believe. This flow of living water is identified in the next verse as His Spirit residing in the believer. There is a constant flow of His power producing fruit. There is never any lack and we never run dry. Everyday we can be filled, And everyday we can overflow to others.

The “Living Water” within not only quenches my thirst for meaning and significance. He also quenches the fires of Satan’s temptations to doubt His goodness when things go terrible wrong. His Spirit reminds me of His faithfulness and care so that those pesky fires that keep popping up are extinguished. The Living Water is found again in our eternal home where there will no longer be thirst, scorching heat or tears. (Rev. 7:16-17) But I don’t have to wait. My “living water” is His presence even today and I never have to run dry.

Fill me up today, Lord.

Scripture for Today: Luke 2:14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

They came down from the sky above and were obviously not from the neighborhood. Their appearance was other worldly. But their mission was clear. They left a message that said, “We came in peace for all mankind.” The year was 1969 and that message was left by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin when they walked the surface of the moon.

Today’s verse is also a message of peace. But this was the message of the angels to the shepherds in the fields at the occasion of Christ’s birth. This peace is nothing like what the world can produce. It is a peace between estranged mankind and their Creator. In our rebellion we were enemies against the God of the universe (Romans 5:10). But God initiated a reconciliation through the substitutionary death of His Son. Jesus Himself is our peace. For those who accept His forgiveness through the cross, there is now a relationship possible with Him where before there was none.

The huge obstacle to having peace with God was my sin. But because He has paid the punishment I so richly deserved, there is now a closeness and communion. I can enjoy His presence in my life as I am no longer under any condemnation (Romans 8:1). Not only is there peace with Him but He enables me to live in peace with others! And what is really amazing is that sense of peace and well-being He puts in my heart. What an incredible gift to live with this inner peace in a world that is so troubled!

Thank you Lord, for Your amazing gift of peace.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 39:1 “I said, ‘I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth while in the presence of the wicked.'”

I have never seen a muzzle on a horse but apparently, it is not all that uncommon. Two different muzzles are used for two very different problems. The grazing muzzle is used when there is a problem with overeating. It will restrict their grass intake while still allowing for pasture time. Then there is the cribbing muzzle to prevent the horse from biting. Their bite will not normally break the skin but those powerful jaws can leave a deep bruise!

Today’s verse talks about a voluntary muzzle needed for our mouths, especially in the presence of the wicked. David was feeling down and discouraged with what he felt was God’s rebuke and discipline (verse 11). He expressed anguish over the fact that life is short and seemingly vain (verse 6). But David did not want any of these feelings voiced in the presence of the wicked. Even when upset with God, David did not want to malign His name.

I need to muzzle my mouth as well, especially when I am questioning the Lord or discouraged in my walk. That does not mean I cannot share these feelings with a trusted believing friend. But when I am with those who do not know the Lord, I would not want my emotional outburst to keep them from faith. I would not want my words to be an obstacle to someone else. The tongue is described as a small spark that can set on fire an entire forest (James 3:6). The damage my tongue could do could have eternal consequences!

Lord, do not ever let me malign Your beautiful and holy Name.

(Look familiar? This is a repost from 2021)