Trickle Down

John 7:38 (New International Version)

38Whoever believes in me, as^[a] the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."


Over the summer, the Southeastern United States experienced one of the worst droughts in recent years. Lake levels were so low that recreational activities such as boating and water skiing became tough if not impossible. Not only were our waterfronts ugly, but news soon came that there would be restrictions on water use and that we might not even have enough drinking water. Months later, the trickle down effect of this drought is still being felt. As the drought persists, news has come that TVA may have to shutdown numerous nuclear power plants in the Southeast. Although this may be a surprising side-effect of low rainfall, the plants rely on large quantities of deep lake water to cool their components.

Similarly, for us Christians, a time without the Living Water is sure to have a trickle down effect. This spiritual drought often begins to show itself with a decreased amount of involvement in Bible studies, small groups, and worship. Soon, our lives start to get ugly and we begin to restrict the times and people that we share the Living Water with. Soon, you have reached a full-blown spiritual drought and a loss of Holy Spirit power is inevitable. The difference here is that we know when a spiritual drought will end: when we bow down, humble ourselves, and submit our wills to the God who knows us, Loves us, accepts us, and saves us.