Thirsting for God

 

A lone apple tree stands in our front yard.  Last year my husband and I were excited to see our first crop of apples, but unfortunately, squirrels carried them off before we could pick them.

This year we were on a mission--save the apples.  We tied pie plates and panty hose filled with moth balls to the branches to repel the squirrels.  I know, it sounds funny, but it worked like a charm.

However as July arrived we got so wrapped up in other things, taking care of the apple tree got placed on the back burner. 
 

One day, my dad came over to visit.  “The leaves on your apple tree are turning brown,” He mentioned as he walked through the door.

I looked out the window and gasped.  Sure enough, the tree was in bad shape.  Several branches had brown withering leaves.  We had taken precautions against the squirrels, but had forgotten to water the tree.

The thirsty apple tree reminds me of how much I need daily hydration in my spiritual life.  It’s so easy to get caught up in chores and writing projects that are calling my name.  Even if the things I am doing are pleasing to the Lord, I sometimes forget how important quiet time is.

Psalms 42: 1 says, As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.

Spending time with Jesus in prayer and study is the spiritual water that I need to survive.  Without it, I will start to wither, just like the apple tree.

Thankfully, with some extra TLC and water, the tree recovered and we were blessed with an abundance of apples this year.  They turned out perfect for homemade apple sauce and apple butter.  Mmm…my favorite.

Just like the tree, I thirst for water, but I need spiritual water that comes from the Jesus.  When I spend time with Him, my parched soul is replenished.  Then I have the strength to continue serving Him.

Thank you for reading and keep shining for Him!

*Photo credit:  My photo