Water and rest

   I just finished cleaning up the ivy that grows on the front of my house. I actually really like it but in the heat of last summer most of it died out! I could not keep enough water on it and I just couldn't keep up with its needs and it could not stay alive without these things.
    This makes me think of my brothers and sisters in Christ who are presently going through a trial. They may be standing in the full sun and crying out for relief and reprieve. I believe we as a church body are trustworthy to provide prayers for God's living water to pour out on our fellow believers, but is it enough? You know that walk through the desert is a long, hot, dry journey! Psalm 107:4-6 says some wandered in the desert wastelands, finding no way to a city where they could settle they were hungry and thirsty and their lives ebbed away. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them! But what if you couldn't cry out to him you were just too dry and words would not escape you? And I am reminded of how many times people went to the well to fetch water for themselves, their families, and loved ones. I am reminded that at times the water had to be retrieved for those who could not go to the well themselves. They simply were not strong enough. Have you ever been there? So dry and weary that you couldn't even speak God's words, His living water into your life and spirit? These were the times when it was a much beloved sister or brother who spoke these words into you! Will you now do the same for others?
   Sometimes it isn't even the water that they need it is the chance to rest and lay down some of that burden they carry in the desolate places. Will we as a church body be the safe place to lay these down in full confidence that it will not be given to others to share? Will you listen and let them lay down a heavy load with no fear of judgement, while still providing accountability where needed, it's such a fine line only the holy spirit can truly discern it? Luke 12:12 says the holy spirit will teach you at that time, what you should say.
   I pray we can provide all of these things to those wasting away in their personal desert and that they may be renewed through the body of Christ!
   God bless and keep you, Ms. Jill