Got Dust? Get Some Rain.

The azalea bush outside my office window was dusty and limp the day the rain finally came. Watching its leaves bounce beneath the cool drizzle, I marveled at the power of water. Within minutes, the dry, drooping bush was upright, refreshed and clean. A momentary change of environment had produced monumental results.

The same is true for Christians. We often find ourselves dry and drooping as we struggle with right and wrong, good and evil. We're in the world, but not of the world, Paul said. Our spirit is willing, but our flesh is weak. Indeed, it's a daily wrestling match that leaves us tired, limp and dragging.

But just like the azalea bush after a cool, refreshing rain, a moment in the Master's presence and our drooping souls are revived again.

I enjoy reading "The Message" version of the Bible, and the 23rd Psalm is one of my favorites. I hope you'll find springs of refreshing today as you read each uplifting line.

Psalm 23

God, my shepherd! I don't need a thing.

You have bedded me down in lush meadows,

you find me quiet pools to drink from.

True to your word,

you let me catch my breath

and send me in the right direction.

Even when the way goes through Death Valley,

I'm not afraid when you walk at my side.

Your trusty shepherd's crook makes me feel secure.

You serve me a six-course dinner

right in front of my enemies.

You revive my drooping head;

my cup brims with blessing.

Your beauty and love chase after me

every day of my life.

I'm back home in the house of God

for the rest of my life.
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Please join me at Spiritual Sundays for some cool, refreshing rain.