“Have faith in me, and you will have life-giving water flowing from deep inside you, just as the Scriptures say.” Jesus was talking about the Holy Spirit, who would be given to everyone that had faith in Him.”
John 7:38-39
It is beautiful to observe the natural world, so much to see and learn. When standing at the water’s edge and throwing stones into the sea it’s been fun to watch the splash it makes on impact. I’m not good at throwing far or hard, but even a small stone causes an effect.
I enjoy seeing ducks and swans as they swim on the lake or river, the ripples they create as they gracefully pass by brings to me a sense of calm and tranquillity.
What impact do we make in the world around us?
When family, friends, work colleagues or even strangers come into our presence how do we leave them feeling?
Do we carry with us a calm, peaceful atmosphere?
When Jesus was on earth people were drawn to Him for his loving and caring ways. Love flowed from His heart and impacted for good the lives of those who met Him. Can the same be said of you and me?
By nature we are sinful and selfish, though we may not wish to think of ourselves in that way. But when we come to Jesus and allow Him to change us through His Holy Spirit – by drinking in His Word and following His example in living, we find day by day we will be more like Him.
As Paul says in Galatians 5:16, 22-23 “Live by the Spirit”….. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” These are the things that will flow from deep inside us when we live by the Spirit. These are of true value to us, because our character needs to be built on each of these precious stones.
Like stones thrown into the lake of life, a smile and hello to a neighbour can create a ripple of joy and make a difference to their day. Being more patient with those who may annoy us can create a peaceful atmosphere.
We all make ripples wherever we go therefore let us be encouraged to live by the Spirit and make a positive difference in the lives of those around us.