"If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink." (John 7:37)

The kids and I memorized this (partial) verse a few months ago. I am learning to put it into practice daily.

With my son sick and running a fever in the last week, I have emphasized to him the importance of hydration. It hasn't mattered so much what he drinks as long as he drinks something. There was a day last week when he didn't want the sports drink I had for him - or juice - or water - but he was willing to drink hot cocoa. Fine! Hot cocoa it was for a day or two. (I think he found the warmth soothing for his sore throat.)

Living in a semi-arid climate, I notice that my body starts to become dehydrated if I don't diligently drink water every day. After only one day without much water, I find my lips drying out and hands in desperate need of lotion.

But more than my body, my spirit needs to stay "hydrated." Many mornings I wake up with the feeling that I can't handle what's ahead. So I recognize my thirst and go to Jesus to "drink." I ask Him to fill me with all that I need for that day. And I make a point of spending some time reading the Bible before starting the rest of my day. When I do this, I can tap into the grace and power of the Holy Spirit and have all the resources I need. When I don't, I find my heart becomes a bit dry.

"Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." (John 7:38)

Wow ... streams of living water flowing from me! When I drink from Jesus, I get more than I need for me - He fills me to overflowing so that I can minister to those around me. He is an abundant God!