Isaiah 40:8 – The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever. (NKJV)

At the time of writing, here in southern Ontario, Canada, we are experiencing a very hot and dry summer. The grass in our yard, as well as in the neighbourhood, is turning brown, and vegetable gardens are in dire need of water.

In addition to our front and back lawns, a small vegetable garden, and several flowerbeds, we also have a number of flower boxes on the railing of the wooden deck at the back of our house. Every day, my wife gets the watering can and looks after them, first thing in the morning. If she does not, those flowers will wilt and dry out within a day or two.

This summer, we have had to be especially diligent in our watering chores for our plants to thrive and grow.

Considering this, I thought about us, thriving and growing spiritually. Just as the flower boxes need water every day, so we need to read God's Word on a daily basis. It is the only way to keep our faith life nourished, the only way to keep it growing and blossoming. If we don't, our faith will be like the dried-out gardens: it will wither and cease to thrive.

After the death of Moses, when Joshua took over as leader of the people of Israel and was about to take them into the Promised Land, he told them to be strong and courageous. Then he reminded them of the laws that Moses had given them:

Joshua 1:8 – This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. (NKJV)

Paul, too, reminds us that we should read the words of Scripture:

Romans 15:4 – For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. (NKJV)

During the summer heat, it is essential that we water our flowers every day if we want them to thrive and grow. Likewise, as we take the time to water our lives regularly with the Word of God, which stands forever, we, too, shall be blessed with spiritual growth and maturity throughout every season of life.

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, there are so many people who need to read Your Word. We pray that You would speak to the hearts of those who need this encouragement so that they will learn about You and the blessings that they will receive. We ask it in Jesus' name. Amen.

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About the author:

Joel Jongkind <austria67@bmts.com>
Meaford, Ontario, Canada
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