Water from the Well of Bethlehem
Today’s Verse:
And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink of it, but poured it out to the LORD. ~1 Chronicles 11:18
Well water was an important and necessary component of life in the arid Middle East during the days of the patriarchs and David. Finding well water meant that you had a great location for herds of cattle, flocks of sheep, irrigating crops, raising your family, and building a city. Bethlehem was at one time a stronghold of the Philistines. David tasted the water from the well of Bethlehem. While he was in hold in the cave of Adullam, he had a longing for that water once again. Three men loyal to his calling, desire, and vision decided to do whatever it took to bring a container of water to David. This morning, let us see some lessons about the water from this well.
We see a cherished substance.
The water of the well of Bethlehem was precious to that city. It was the primary water source for the herds, flocks, and people who resided there. David had unforgettable memories of how that water was sweet and refreshing. The water sources from brooks and rivers near his hold did not compare to the well water of Bethlehem. This water is a picture of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said that for all who believe in Him, out of their bellies shall flow rivers of living water. This living water is the working of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. There was only one water that made a difference, and it was from that well.
We see a consuming sentiment.
David desired water from the well of Bethlehem. David was depleted, thirsty, and restless. The great desire that should occupy the thoughts of every believer is for the fullness of the Holy Spirit in our lives. “Oh that one would give me drink”! David cried out in the wee morning hours and deep into the night for this water. He needed that water to sustain him and even to live. Would God that we would crave the power of the Holy Spirit so greatly that we realize we cannot live without His power in us!
We see the committed soldiers.
Three of his soldiers overheard David’s desire. They banded together, developed a plan, and broke through the host of the Philistines to get this water for David. First, these men decided to do whatever it took, including the risk of their lives, to get this water. Will you fight the devil and accept the risks of getting the Spirit’s power in your life? Second, these men broke through. Breakthroughs are when we get through impassable situations. The power of the Holy Spirit becomes available first when there is a breakthrough. Third, they drew it out of the well, took it, and brought it to David. These men risked everything to bring David a drink of water from this well.
We see a consecrated sacrifice.
First, we see the sacrifice of the three soldiers. They sacrificed their bodies. They could have been injured, maimed, or even killed. Dedication of the Christian starts when we offer our bodies as a living sacrifice to God. Second, we see the sacrifice of David. David was overwhelmed that these three men heard his spoken request and risked their lives to bring him water. Some probably thought that it was a very foolish endeavor on their part, but not David. David recognized the risks these men accepted, and, instead of drinking it, he poured it out as a drink offering to the Lord. What David did symbolized the entire pouring and spilling out of a life to the Lord. What happened in this account became a part of sacred Canon. Do you desire the power of the Lord so much that you would do whatever it takes to get it? Then, when it is yours to consume, will you use it for His glory or to further your ambitions instead?
Have a thirsting God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: 1 Corinthians 1-4