5 4 2012 Sam’s Journal
As I sat this morning and began to put my eyes on Jesus I saw the throne of God and a great river running out from under the throne. Part of that great rushing river split off and came down to me. Part of that river splits off and comes down to each and every believer.
Today I am puppeteer training, building backdrops for the red unit, refurbing Puppetmobiles. Oliver and Craigen will be here today. Lord, give me clarity of mind. Help me to see, to discern, to accomplish much, and give me your presence every moment. Refresh me as I work. Go before me and prepare a way, step by step. Bring together all the details. Give me the answers I need today to succeed in doing your work where you have planted me and prepare me for the future.
There is a river, that flows from deep within. So goes an old hymn we sang in church when I was a child. Its interesting how well I remember words from those old hymns. I could hardly sing you any modern worship song we now sing in church all the time. As I sat and worshiped in my room this morning, coming into the presence of God, to hear his sweet voice a song came to mind. There is a river, that flows from deep within . . .
There is a river that flows from deep within,
There is a fountain that frees the soul from sin.
Come to this water, there is a vast supply.
There is a river that never shall run dry.[i]
Jesus said, “If you are thirsty come to me and drink, and as the scriptures have said, out of your belly shall flow rivers of living water. This he spoke of the Holy Spirit.”[ii] When that flow of living water arrives it refreshes, renews, strengthens, ignites! It brings salvation, healing, refreshing. It releases the captives, heals the broken-hearted. It washes away all doubt and fear. It cleanses. It is the voice of God. His voice is what makes Christianity unique. It is what makes it God. It is the power and working of his Spirit. You must learn how to release the river! All other religions worship dead men, but we have a risen savior. He’s alive! His trillions of legions of angels are at your disposal. His Holy Spirit is ever present ready to help you and counsel you at your call. In any situation there is a peace, a strength, a calmness that flows down upon you and over you. It soothes a wounded Spirit. It teaches, lifts up, prepares and strengthens for the tasks at hand. It brings with it the wisdom and knowledge of God. No matter your task for this day you can start your day by releasing the river. A river brings many things with it. So it is with the Holy Spirit. He can bring you insights and knowledge that will help you and guide you through your day, giving you insights, nudges, tips. Oh how sweet it is to live with a Savior who is alive, rather than in a religion that is dry and full of on only rules and regulations that must be followed to the point of exhaustion, where entry into heaven must be earned by our own efforts. Jesus stands and simply invites. His forgiveness and grace is sufficient. He calls your name. He burden is light. His yoke is easy. His forgiveness is swift and complete. Come to the river my friend. Let it sweep you away into his sweet presence where there is only joy and laughter, peace and comfort. It is real. You can take it with you into your day no matter what you face. God loves you! He has made this level of living possible. He is a loving Father that has prepared a fine gift for you to open, savor and use every day, for the rest of your life. Come to the river and learn to let it flow!