Going to the River of Life…

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. (Revelations 22:1, ESV)

It’s an activity my husband and I have enjoyed together since our dating days: sitting by the river. No matter where we were living, as we sat or sometimes stood by the river, we experienced God’s presence. At times we have gained clarity about decisions we needed to make, received wisdom concerning problems we were facing, or were able to reconnect with God on a deeper and much needed level. The longer we remained by the water the more we sensed and experienced his transformative powers.           

When the Holy Spirit took the apostle into heaven, so John had a clear vision of what he was to write down, one of the destinations He led John to was the river of the water of life. John wrote, that river was as bright as crystal, and it flowed from the throne of God and of the Lamb. No wonder we can find our peace, our strength, hope and assurance that God and the Lamb are with us on our journey. Whether we are there for minutes or hours we come away with a feeling of having been restored in some way; whatever life, problems, trials, or ministering to others had stripped from us we were refreshed as we remained.

When we get to heaven, we will be able to visit that river that is clear as crystal and follow its path to the throne of God and the Lamb. We will never tire of going there. Always looking forward to where it will lead us. Even now on our earthly journey, we can open the Word of God, visit the stories of Jesus in the Gospels, enjoy the Psalms and each Book so carefully breathed and written by the power of the Holy Spirit, knowing we are walking the path that leads to the throne of God and of the Lamb. Let’s Pray

How refreshed we are Lord when we stand by the river and walk its path which leads to your throne. No wonder we are restored in so many ways because in you there is refreshment, strength, and peace. Amen  

Reflective Thoughts for Examination and Soul-Tending:      

People who preach or teach the Word of God are like the angel who showed John the river of the water of life. Through their messages help us connect with God, see Lamb more clearly. Are you making sure to read your Bible daily or take time in your week to hear a spirit-filled message that leads you to the throne of God and of the Lamb?

How will you incorporate today’s message into your plan of self and soul-care?