Daily Journal: 17 June

Watered and Well

Sometimes, all that we need physically to feel better and get some energy back is a glass of water.

Sometimes, all that we need emotionally to refresh our minds is a friend; someone who will listen, really listen and understand. Just that one act of heartfelt empathy can help shift our frame of mind and ease the heaviness in our heart.

Heartfelt empathy is like pulling a few weeds from the garden of our mind and refreshing it with a little bit of water.

Psalm 77:9-12 (NLT)

Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he slammed the door on his compassion? Interlude

And I said, “This is my fate; the Most High has turned his hand against me.” But then I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works.

It’s a necessary part of daily life to maintain the back garden of our minds. Sometimes, the back garden can get neglected, but if the back garden is neglected, eventually the weeds will creep into the whole garden and it becomes a real project to clean up.

It doesn’t feel good to have a messy garden or a messy mind. Keeping a pristine garden of the soul requires regular tending and watering. To be watered and well, we need friendship, transparent conversations, and time with God drinking in His Word.

Colossians 3:16 (ESV)

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

When we are connected with others and allow others to speak into our lives in meaningful ways, and we’re allowed the same privilege, healing takes place in areas that may become gritty. Joy is renewed. We feel abundant and able to carry on.

Proverbs 17:22 (AMP)

A happy heart is good medicine and a joyful mind causes healing, But a broken spirit dries up the bones.

Psalm 103:2 (NCV)

My whole being, praise the Lord and do not forget all his kindnesses.

I pray that today we will receive that watering where we need and we will be able to water others well. I pray that we will remember all of your loving-kindnesses towards us in the past, knowing that you will also take care of our future.