Read John 4:7-15

Paul wrote, "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
- Philippians 3:14 (KJV)

I have always been fascinated with water in its various forms. The rushing force of a waterfall is vibrant and exciting. In contrast, the placid stillness of a pond can appear beautifully serene. Closer observation, however, often reveals that standing water is stagnant and has an unpleasant odor. Water must be constantly moving to remain fresh and alive.

Sometimes as Christians we may be like that stagnant pond. We seem pure and beautiful, but closer inspection may show that we have become complacent and are no longer "pressing toward the mark" set before us. When we stand still instead of moving steadily toward Christ, we can become stagnant. Freshness is maintained by constantly searching the scriptures, ardently desiring to share more and more intimate moments in prayer with the Lord, joyfully meeting with others for worship, and lovingly serving others.

As we keep moving toward our ultimate goal of being conformed to the image of Christ, God not only renews us but blesses us each step along the way. Then we can be like "a spring of water, whose waters fail not" (Isaiah 58:11, kjv).

Prayer:
Father, help us to live our lives for you, and to glorify you in all that we say and do. Amen.

Thought for the day:
Is my faith a fresh spring or a stagnant puddle?

Prayer Focus:
Christians who have stopped growing

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