According to the Mayo Clinic, the human body is more than 60% water, and the average person loses 3-4 quarts of water a day just through breathing, and other bodily functions. Strenuous activity and illness can increase one’s daily amount of water loss. If that water is not sufficiently replaced, the mind and body do not function properly. As a means of self-preservation, God created us with the ability to thirst – to crave water. Unfortunately, many substitute soft drinks and other not as beneficial fluids and do not drink enough water to rectify the effects of under hydration.
We can see the same symptoms appear in our lives in the spiritual realm as well. Dissatisfaction is a clear sign of spiritual dehydration. We grow weak, desperate, clamoring for something, but seemingly never satisfied. Yes, this can (and all to often does) happen to those of us in a relationship with Jesus. The problem is that we are looking to the wrong sources to satisfy us, when we are designed to find satisfaction in Christ alone. Consider the words of Jesus:
“…but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” – John 4:14
“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.” – John 7:37
What are some substitutes that others look to for satisfaction? Relationships? Money? Circumstances? Possessions? Church? People? When we sip from any cup of life for satisfaction other than our relationship with Jesus, we will remain chronically dehydrated spiritually.
Spend time with Jesus daily. Drink often and deeply from the fountain of His Word. Set your mind on Him, thinking of Him often throughout the day, bringing your thoughts captive to Him. When the temptation to dissatisfaction comes your way, remind yourself of who you are in Him and what is in store for you in this life and the life to come all because of Him. Come to understand with the Apostle Paul that to live is Christ (Philippians 1:20-21). Remember that all things in life pale in importance when compared to the value and presence of Jesus in your life.