Not just surviving, but THRIVING!

Psalm 84:5-7 (NLT)

⁵ What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord,
    who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
⁶ When they walk through the Valley of Weeping,
    it will become a place of refreshing springs.
    The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings.
⁷ They will continue to grow stronger,
    and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem.

We were on vacation this past week in Florida where the weather was warm and sunny! Beautiful flowers were in bloom all over and we could smell the oranges as we passed groves loaded with colorful fruit. Somehow these trees and flowers are able to withstand the state's current drought conditions. In other places, we saw once green and lush shrubs and trees turned brown and wilted.  Could it be the thriving plants are sustained by another source of water other than rain? Perhaps they are watered by someone who takes particular care of them and sees to their needs for they thrive despite nature's brutal elements. Isn't this the illustration referenced in the verse above for the believer? Despite the tough times he faces, he is still well watered and able to flourish. He will continue to grow on his journey right up until the time when he meets Jesus face to face. He is well planted, strong, and nourished. Will you take these truths to heart and claim them in your present circumstance? Try reading them over again and making them personal. God's Word is alive and active...He is eager for you to experience it's power in your life.
Lord, give us eyes to see like you see! Help us to grab hold of your strength and claim it for our lives today!