DRYNESS AND BARRENNESS

DRY SEASON

We are experiencing the heat and dryness of the hot summer months, and because there is no rain, the place is dry and parched from the scorching heat.  The grass withers and becomes brittle, the flowers are drooping and the fruit trees are dropping their fruits.  Life has a way of letting us experience such dryness and barrenness.  

We are embarking on The Widow's Fast this month and the purpose is to meet the humanitarian needs of others.  If you have ever experienced a dry season you will understand what it's like to be be hungry physically or spiritually.  That should also give you a good feel of the reality of life of those who are less fortunate within your church, community and territory. You will know that it brings on a feeling of hopelessness and in some cases you may not even be aware of your surroundings. 

In his book, Fasting For Spiritual Breakthrough, Elmer Towns states, “Wherever we look, we find people in need. The hungry and homeless are under our bridges, on our streets and beyond our borders. It seems there are always more people in need than resources to meet that need.” 

Jesus has asked that we consider the poor among us, and be considerate of others. It's that sense of identity that causes us to corporately come together to fulfill - Isaiah 58:7

Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Isaiah 58:7 KJV)

How about joining us on our journey for Ten Times More?  

Ask yourself....

"What significant humanitarian needs are felt by people in your church and community?"  (Make a list of those individuals and their needs so you can pray and perform humanitarian acts to) 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SPIRITUAL DROUGHT 

"And it came to pass after a while, that the brook dried up, because there had been no rain in the land."  1 Kings 17:7

While there are many homeless and others who are in physical need, there are so many who are experiencing spiritual drought.  They go through the motions, and while it appears that they are well watered on the outside, they are dry and barren from within.  They may even go to church, perform their duties and responsibilities but yet feel so empty.   Their souls long for God's glory.  They long for a fresh word, anointing or another touch.  They wander and wonder in isolation even though they are in a crowd.  They tend to escape with substitutes and junk foods, but nothing quenches their thirst or satisfies their hunger.                                                                 

Do you know someone who is in this position or are you there yourself? 

Has your brook dried up?

Are you parched from the lack of spiritual nourishment?

Come to The Waters - Isaiah 55:1 (KJV)

Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

Let's discuss the following:

• What are some of the signs that indicate spiritual drought or dryness? 
• What are some of the reasons that can cause spiritual drought?
• What are some of the results of long-term drought/dryness?
• What are some things that can be done to replenish?

Remember, it is important to be nourished from the wellspring of the Word to maintain your moisture.  Dryness and barrenness bring despair, anxiety and other ills.  You must be fortified in order to nourish others.  Drink often from the water of life so you can sing....

Hallelujah I have found Him, Whom my soul so long have craved

Jesus satisfies my longing, through His blood I now am saved

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel