THE REFRESHING SPRING by Gary Wilkerson

Early in His ministry, Jesus announced this about Himself:

“On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds” (John 7:37, NLT, emphasis mine).

Jesus didn’t just issue a statement—He shouted. And He waited until the biggest day of the festival to stand up and make His announcement:

“[He]) shouted to the crowds, ‘Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, “Rivers of living water will flow from his heart”’” (7:37-38).

BEATEN DOWN BY DEAD RELIGION

This was an act of compassion more than a theological statement. Dead religion had beaten down God’s people. That which should have refreshed them left them with no life whatsoever. Now Jesus announced, “I am your cup of cold water, the refreshing spring that never stops flowing. You can drink from Me to find your life renewed continually.” There are no qualifications needed to drink from this amazing wellspring. Christ assures us, “Anyone who believes in Me may come and drink!” (7:38).

THE REFRESH BUTTON

Friend, life in Christ is a refresh button like no other. When it gets pushed, the most stunted, despairing, dreary soul is renewed with the power of heaven. When Jesus says, “Rivers of living water will flow from My heart,” He is showing us what our lives will look like with a simple touch from Him. His Spirit so fills us that we overflow with abundant life, grace, mercy and love. His flow of life transforms everything.

As I have said many times, God never gives us a message without backing it up with His power. If He has called us to a life of abundant refreshment, then He will supply everything needed to make that happen.