“The rain comes down from heaven…watering the earth” (Isaiah 55:10).
This morning a gentle rain was falling on the lawns and trees, making a quiet pattering on the leaves. Its peaceful whispering was the sound of refreshing. The lush grass, unusually green for August, was gladly drinking in the welcome moisture.
I just happened to be reading in Isaiah this morning how God sends rain for the specific purpose of making the earth bud and flourish to give us food (Isaiah 55:10). God then compares rain to His Word, which is also sent out for a purpose. “It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isa. 55:11).
Just as rain nourishes growing plants, so God’s Word enriches our spirit and emotions to grow us into stronger, healthier Christ-followers as He purposed us to be. His words are intended to give us enlightenment, wisdom, courage, strength, and joy. The Bible, unlike any other reading material, has the unique quality of being alive with the Spirit of God. It is “living and active…it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). So, not only do we read it, but it also reads us! It interacts with us as God gently speaks to and encourages us in the direction of growth.
If we open our hearts to God’s Word, confident in its reliability, we will begin to see God grow us as easily as grass grows in our lawn.
God, let your truth rain down on my heart.