Among other themes that captured my interest was the theme of streams.
A group of us were considering how the theme of water is prevalent throughout scripture. There’s the connection to the Spirit that is evident and what water does in life as well is something that was highlighted and I took much encouragement from what the saints shared.
For me, however, the issue of streams came to me most vividly when I was thinking about provision. Reflecting on my journey of faith in the last few years brought to my attention how God has not provided for me from just one stream. There have been a number of different streams that He has provided for me – whether through one type of employment or another, whether through the family of faith or friends from elsewhere. Diverse ways to provide for me, some on an ongoing basis and some a one off.
That appreciation got me thinking more of even how the Garden of Eden was nourished by four different streams. It also got me being more intentional with God not to look for Him from just one avenue. Indeed it remains a prayer of mine for this time in my life to make the most of the streams that are evident and the ones He can reveal to me if I remain faithful to being obedient to Him.
In any case, recently I had much to be grateful to God for the streams that refresh. Sometimes times can get tough and even in places where you might expect refreshing streams you might not come across them. God is not limited though, neither is He blind and inconsiderate. He brings refreshing through engagement with good friends behind the scenes. He brings refreshing through appreciating the arts. He brings refreshing through good news about that which you love doing very well.
It’s not about Him making everything alright and no worries and no problems. He never guaranteed trouble-free days, but there’s something about these streams that restore. Especially after the battering that issues in life can have, to be restored by these streams means so much to me.
I am grateful to God for the streams that restore.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 