Reflection

In a dry land like Israel, much like my home state of WA, water sources are precious. In Numbers 24, Balaam looks out to the dry wilderness and then paints an extraordinary picture of life that is connected to God as a richly flourishing ecosystem, nourished by abundant, life-giving water. The vegetation he describes would support life’s key necessities, providing plants that heal (aloes), quality building materials (cedar) and alluding to the seed sown by the farmer to grow food crops in the garden.

Our faith can only flourish when we are connected deeply to the One who is the Living Water – Jesus. “Doing Christian things” or “being a good person” can never be a substitute for knowing Christ.

Question

Are there areas of your life where you have been relying on yourself rather than on God?

Prayer

Loving God, you created me, you know me and you love me. Out of your love and grace, you provide all I need to know and love you. Help me to trust and rely fully on you for all my needs. In Jesus’ name, Amen.