Water water everywhere but not a drop to drink.  I am sure we have all heard this phrase at some time or another.  The phrase actually comes from an ancient poem written centuries ago, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.  When we hear this phrase now-a-days visions of a lifeboat stranded in the middle of the ocean often arise.  Sailors from a sunken ship are stranded, tormented with thirst.  Adding to their agony is the fact that they cannot drink the water.  What could be going through their minds?  If they fail to drink, they will surely die.  If they drink, their thirst will be quenched for a brief time, but they will surely die more quickly.

We often may imagine certain scenarios that we sometimes see in movies as well.  Some in the lifeboat will succumb to the desire to drink, while others resist the urge and hold out with hope.  Those who drink eventually die of dehydration.  Those who resist are suddenly rescued at the last minute by a passing ship.

One may see the sailors as everyday people just like you and I, and the ocean as the devil.  We are often faced with uncertainty and tribulation.  We are looking for a way out.  The devil sees our situation and offers us what appears to be the way out.  The problem is that the devil is deceitful and cunning.  What he offers may provide temporary relief, but in the end leads to more suffering and death.

God tells us in His Word that “[W]hosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.“  John 4:14.  God also tells us that “they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength.”  Isaiah 40:31(a).

The devil offers lies and deceit disguised as truth to the unwary person.  God offers us the living water of salvation.  If we are faithful and trust in the Lord, we can be assured that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).  No matter what our situation.  No matter how dire things may appear to be, if we trust in the Lord, He will take care of us.

The next time you are faced with tribulation, what will you do?  Will you take the devil’s bait, or will you wait upon the Lord who will truly quench your thirst?

If you are facing difficulties in your life and want to know more about the truth of salvation that God has to offer you, please contact us.