“As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God”. Psalm 42:1 NLT
Webster’s defines the word longing as a strong desire especially for something unattainable, (i.e., craving). The good news is that our desire is totally attainable. I have a Bible full of promises that encourage me and instruct me on exactly how to attain a relationship with my LORD. Filled not only cover to cover with promises but real-life stories of people just like me, who have struggled in their own relationship with God and persevered.
Paul said it best when he wrote, “I don’t understand myself at all, for I really want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do the very thing I hate. I know perfectly well that what I am doing is wrong, and my bad conscience shows that I agree that the law is good. (23) But there is another law at work within me that is at war with my mind. This law wins the fight and makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.” Romans 7: 15-16,23 NLT.
We all thirst and we all struggle. We thirst because it is essential, we need that closeness to the Father. It calms the spirit, encourages us to keep pressing on and equips us for the battle. There is a constant struggle between the flesh and the spirit. Strong at times but weakened when the spirit is fully equipped. So how do we equip ourselves to full potential?
“Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” I Thessalonians 5:11
Not only do we need our daily quiet time, but we need God’s people to draw strength for the day to day. As Christians it’s important to find a local group of believers, plug-in to a group of people that are like-minded for iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). It’s encouraging to know that we are not alone in our struggles, but they can also lend an ear and offer some advice.
We require rest for our souls. Then Jesus said, “Come unto me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). God knows exactly what we need and when we need it. He has a longing, a deep desire for spending time with each and every one of His creations every single day. However, it is not always attainable.
He will not push his way into our lives, we are responsible to make the time, open the door of communication and initiate a set time alone with the Father. If you show up, He will already be there waiting I can promise you that. Push the chaos of the day-to-day grind to the background, find a quiet place to rest and take in the streams of living water that will refresh your soul.
Excuses come easy, I know, but don’t let them win and cheat you out of your much needed time to rest and recharge those batteries. When I find myself struggling, my mind goes back to a past post I shared called, “Feed The Fire” an old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life struggles and the tale of the two wolves. Moral of the story, the wolf that wins is the one you feed the most. Which wolf are you feeding today? Make sure you’re not starving yourself.
“No, O people, the LORD has already told you what is good, and this is what he requires: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God”. Micah 6:8
May this week find us seeking our place of refuge my friend. God Bless.
Surrendered Heart 