The story is told of a prospector in the last century who had to make a four-day journey across a burning desert. He couldn’t carry enough water to make the journey without dying of thirst, but he was assured there was a well halfway across the desert. So he set out and sure enough there was a well right where the map indicated. But when he pumped the handle, the well only burped up sand. Then he saw this sign: “Buried two feet over and two feet down is a jug of water. Dig it up and use the water to prime the pump. Drink all the water you want, but when you are done, fill the jug again for the next person.”
Sure enough, two feet over and two feet down was enough water for the prospector to prime the pump or to finish his journey. Should he pour the water down the well or should he drink it?
To tell you the truth, I’d drink the water that was buried! I don’t know who wrote the sign on that rusty old pump. It could be a cruel joke. I’d pour that water down a worthless well only to watch my life drain away for lack of water.
Faith always has an element of risk, but there is one factor in the above story that doesn’t exist when it comes to God. I know who wrote the sign. When I pour myself into a life of faith, I know that out of my inner being shall flow rivers of living water. God said so, history verifies it, and I, for one, can testify that it is true. In the final analysis, God is not only true, He’s right.
There is more than enough water in God’s well for everyone, but the pump is only activated by faith. Remember: “Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).
Heavenly Father, You have proven Yourself trustworthy. Your river of living water never dries up or becomes polluted.
You say: “It’s impossible.” God says: All things are possible. (Luke 18:27)
You say: “I’m too tired.” God says: I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: “Nobody really loves me.” God says: I love you. (John 3:16 & John 13:34)
You say: “I can’t go on.” God says: My grace is sufficient. (2 Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: “I can’t figure things out.” God says: I will direct your steps. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: “I can’t do it.” God says: You can do all things. (Philippians 4:13)
You say: “I’m not able.” God says: I am able. (2 Corinthians 9:8)
You say: “It’s not worth it.” God says: It will be worth it. (Romans 8:28)
You say: “I can’t forgive myself.” God says: I FORGIVE YOU. (1 John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: “I can’t manage.” God says: I will supply all your needs. (Philippians 4:19)
You say: “I’m afraid.” God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear. (2 Timothy 1:7)
You say: “I’m always worried and frustrated.” God says: Cast all your cares on ME. (1 Peter 5:7)
You say: “I don’t have enough faith.” God says: I’ve given everyone a measure of faith. (Romans 12:3)
You say: “I’m not smart enough.” God says: I give you wisdom. (1 Corinthians 1:30)
You say: “I feel all alone.” God says: I will never leave you nor forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5)
Questions
1. Why do you think other people have faith in Jesus?
2. Do you think it is better to rely on Jesus or to rely on yourself?
3. It is easier to have faith in God when you have others to help you. If you want to trust Jesus more fully, let your leader know.
Extreme Faith in Jesus results in an extremely awesome life - “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – John 10:10
