Sometimes We Just Need a Little Water

CrossTalk

A few nights ago, I noticed a depressing sight.

One of our houseplants was beginning to die.

Usually standing tall, with impressively dark, green leaves, it was suddenly touching the floor, arched outward with hints of death on its’ stem.

Alarmed, I did what all good husbands do—consulted my wife on horticultural advice! She agreed that water was the necessary remedy so I quickly gave this usually strong plant what it was lacking and went to bed.

The next morning, I was surprised by the sight awaiting me.

Our houseplant was once again standing strong.

No longer arched towards the floor, its’ leaves were reaching upwards toward the sky and it was healthily green once again.

Turns out, all it needed was a little water.

The water of the word

In Ephesians 5, Paul describes Jesus’ relationship with the church as one where he has “cleansed her by the washing of water with the word.”

Paul relates the word of God to water.

Water that brings cleansing and new life.

And just like with our houseplant, a little water can go a long way.

I know many people are overwhelmed when they think of spending time in God’s word. With 66 books written centuries ago in foreign cultures, it can seem like a tall task! I also know folks who would love to read the Bible more but they just don’t feel they have enough time.

Whichever place you’re in, I’d like to encourage you.

You’d be surprised by the ways God can meet you with just a little bit of daily Bible reading.

So don’t let the sheer volume of Scripture or your hectic schedule scare you from spending time in the Bible. Read a Psalm every morning before work or on your lunch break. Memorize a phrase from Scripture that you recite throughout the week. Find little nuggets to carry with you.

You don’t need a PhD or hours of free time to find nourishment from God’s word.

A little water can go a long way.