Java for the Spirit: Fueled by Faith, Fitness and Coffee Grounds

The truest measure of our relationship with Jesus will always be in the life found in the lives of those we touch. Jesus tells the Samaritan woman in John 4 he is the source of living water, and those who come to Him will find life, and hope and refreshment for their souls. He describes that water as a "fresh, bubbling spring within Him", one that brings eternal life. If such a living water truly flows through us, then, the natural outflow will be life and beauty blooming around us. There will be growth and fruit of hope showing in the hearts of those around us in Jesus is truly what flows from us. Jesus words and his works were never to bring darkness, bitterness or despair. So, if this is what we see flowing from us into the lives of others, then the first thing we need to check is our own connection to the Source of Living Water. When we find refreshment in Him, we seek to refresh others as well, instead of parching them of life. So, what is your connection to the w...

"He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does it's own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love." Ephesians 4:16, NLT Everyone has days when they feel unimportant, like they don't have anything special to offer. I know I have had more than my share of days feeling like that. When I am tempted to feel that way, though, there is a four word phrase in the verse above particularly important to grasp. "...it's own special work..." This phrase makes it clear that as a treasured creation of the Lord, you are created with a purpose - and not just any purpose, but a special purpose that is unique to you, that makes you a crucial part of the body of Christ. This is the part where it's tempting to look at our own skill set and still feel as though there we are replaceable or interchangeable parts. "There are others that can do what I do, and they can do it better...