Be Fresh Water
“Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring.”
James 3:11-12, NLT
This week, the Just for Epiphany small groups begin their four-week study of James. It is a powerful letter that can pack quite the punch. James does not mince words, which is why many people either read it with fear and trembling or don’t read it at all, but I’m convinced we need James; we need to hear his words whether we realize it or not.
James calls us to align our actions with our beliefs. If we believe everything about Jesus, then we need to live like Him! There’s no time to lollygag. The business of God’s Kingdom is too important to profess one thing with our lips and not live it out in our lives.
My favorite verse in the entire letter is the one above. It can be summed up by the command: “Be Fresh Water.” If the Gospel brings abundant life that heals, transforms and transfigures (by the power of the Holy Spirit) then we should be fresh water to this thirsty world. There is no life without fresh water. Animals will travel great distances and encounter grave dangers just to have access to water. You and I would not last long without it.
Where the Gospel is, there is life. James reminds us that our entire life is to be fresh water. We need to bring life to the people and situations we encounter. This is not something we can do on our own. However, when we live out the faith we profess, then we can’t help but build up where others tear down or bring hope amid the dark valleys of life.
Dear friends, may we take James’ words to heart today. May we be fresh water for the glory of God, the Fountain of All Wisdom.
