Two-Minute Manna

Maybe in a dry region, the psalmist saw a deer drinking water from a stream. Maybe it was this sight that prompted him to say, “That’s exactly how I feel. My heart is thirsty. My soul is longing for God.”

Augustine put it this way: Our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee.

Although people might not be aware of it or be able to articulate it, the fact is, God is what every soul craves. That is why Jesus said that it was only he who drank of the water He gave who would never thirst again (John 4:14).

Sometimes, late at night, I’ll think I’m craving something. So I’ll pour a bowl - or two - or three - of Mini-Wheats. When that doesn’t satisfy me, I’ll watch the news or read Time magazine. But then, when I finally come to my senses, I turn off the TV, throw away the empty box of cereal, and say, “Lord, what I really need is just to spend time with You.” And, without fail, as I do, I am truly, deeply satisfied and fulfilled.

If you’re thirsting, perhaps it’s because you’ve been drinking at the old watering holes, trying to find satisfaction in the world. Come to the Lord. Drink of Him. Draw nigh to Him and He’ll draw nigh to you. That’s not my word. It’s His (James 4:8).