In order to understand John 7:38, we need to look at the verses before and after it. In verse 37, we find that it is the last day of a feast and Jesus stood up and cried out to the people, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” At times, God brings seasons of spiritual hunger and thirst as a way to draw us closer to Him. Just as when we are physically hungry or thirsty, we seek out food and water, if we are spiritually hungry and thirsty, we should seek out Jesus. In some ways, the spiritual thirst for Christ should 
never really be quenched while we are living on earth. When we experience spiritual hunger and thirst, we come to Jesus with a desire to know Him more. The more we know Him, the more we understand His deep, unfailing, unending, reckless love for us – a love that cost Him His life. The more we understand His love for us, the more we love Him. The more we love Him, the more we want to get to know Him – and the cycle continues. So if you are experiencing a spiritual thirst, come to Jesus and He will give you living water.
In verse 38, Jesus continue speaking to the people and says, “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” If we are to believe in Jesus as the Scripture said, there are some questions we must ask ourselves and determine how we will answer them. We will look at how the Bible answers these questions, but each one of us must determine how we will answer them.
Who is Jesus? Jesus is fully God and He was fully man. In John 10:30, Jesus said, “I and the Father are one.” In John 8:58, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was born, I am!” In the Old Testament (Exodus 3:14), Moses asked God, “Who should I say sent me?” God replied, “Tell them I AM sent you.” So in John 8:58, when Jesus said, “I am” He was saying He was God. John 1:1 says, “the Word was God” and in John 1:14, it says, “the Word became flesh.” This indicates that Jesus was God…in the flesh. He came to earth as a baby, born to the virgin Mary, grew into a man and lived here on earth just as any of us do, but without any sin. He felt hunger, thirst, anger, sadness, pain, compassion. He had friends, family, and enemies. Jesus is also the Son of God. In Matthew 3:17, God, speaking out of heaven said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.” Even the demons that encounter Jesus understood that Jesus was God’s son. In Mark 5:7, a demon said to Jesus: “What business do we have with each other, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I implore You by God, do not torment me!” In Mark 8:29, 
Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered that Jesus was Christ, the Messiah. Today, Jesus is asking you, “Who do you say that I am?”
In Mark 8:29, Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered that Jesus was Christ, the Messiah. Today, Jesus is asking you, “Who do you say that I am?”Â
What was the need for Jesus to come to earth? From the very first sin committed by Eve in the Garden of Eden, sin entered the world and every human other than Jesus has sinned. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” While God created humans to have a relationship with Him, sin keeps us separated from a righteous, holy God. Isaiah 59:2 says, “But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you.” Not only does sin separate us from God, but there is a penalty for sin. Romans 6:23 says that the wages we earned for our sin is death. It was because of our sin that Jesus needed to come to earth. He was sent here to pay the penalty in our place for our sin. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
How did Jesus meet this need? Hebrews 9:22 tells us that “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” If the wages of sin is death, then it was Jesus’ blood shed on the cross that cleanses us from sin. 1 John 1:7 tells us that “the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” Because Jesus lived a sinless life, He was the only one who could provide the payment for our sin. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” 1 Peter 2:24 says, “He Himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed.” Jesus met the sin debt of our sin by his sacrificial death on the cross and then conquered death through His resurrection.
Where is Jesus today? If Jesus did not rise from the dead, then his sacrificial death would not be enough. If he was still in tomb then he would be no different than Mohammad or Buddha. Luke 24:50-51 says, “Then He led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up His hands He blessed them. And while He was blessing them, He left them and was carried up into heaven. Today, Jesus sits at the right hand of God. Hebrews 10:12 tell us, “But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God,”
Why did Jesus do this for me? There is only one reason that Jesus would sacrificially 
give His life in my place as payment for my sin – Love. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” 1 John 4:10 says, “In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” Love is the only reason that Jesus offered His life in my place to pay my sin debt. When you think about it, before God created Adam and Eve, He knew they would sin and Jesus would have to pay their debt. Before He created you or me, He knew we would sin and Jesus would have to pay our debt. But he created us anyway. Why? Because God is love. And He loves you and me.
When did I realize I am a sinner? In order to receive the living water that Jesus offered, we all must come to the realization that we are sinners, lost without Jesus, and have a need for Him to save us form our sins.
What must I do to receive living water? First we must admit that we are sinners and need a Savior. Second we must believe in our heart by faith that Jesus is the Son of God, that He lives a sinless life, died on the cross, was buried for three days, and then rose again. Third, we must confess our sin to God, asking Him to forgive us. Then we receive the free gift of God’s salvation by faith as we ask Jesus to be our Lord and Savior. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift—not from works, so that no one can boast.” There is absolutely nothing you can do on your own to be saved. You can’t earn it. You can’t live “good enough.” You can’t buy you way into heaven. It is only by faith in Jesus that you receive God’s gracious and free gift of salvation.Â
Only as children of God are we able to receive the river of living water that flows out of the heart the Jesus mentioned in John 7:38. And in verse 39, we find that the living water Jesus was talking about is the Holy Spirit. Once we accept Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit dwells within us, teaching us, guiding us, correcting us, encouraging us, and drawing us ever closer to God as we live our lives.
#livingwater#grace #unfailinglove
Don’t forget to learn this week’s memory verse:
Memorize and hide in your heart one memory verse each week in 2020. If you didn’t start the challenge at the beginning of the year, just jump in now and be sure to sign up to get our weekly Memory verse in your email so you don’t miss a week.
This week’s memory verse:
Micah 7:7
But I will look to the Lord;
I will wait for the God of my salvation.
My God will hear me.
 #hope #waitingonGod #revival #WCM
We have few new items to show this week:
Check out all the available products in the Spreadshirt shop. Also available in the Teespring shop
All proceeds go to the advancement of Wellspring Christian Ministries.
Thank you for helping us grow!
#Micah7:7 #hope #waitingonGod #teespring #spreadshop
This week’s featured items are some of the products you will find on the subject of hope. We’ve also included some of the graduation gifts and teacher gifts that are available.
At Christian Book Distributors you will find Bible Studies, books, gifts, and more to help you grow your faith and often at discounted prices from other places.
Our organization receives an 8% commission on any item you purchase through these links. However, the product price is the same for you. There is no increase in your cost for us to receive the commission. All commissions received support the work and ministry of Wellspring Christian Ministries. Enter the site through any of the links below and browse the online store. Any item you purchase through ones of our links will qualify for us to receive the commission.
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Hope. LifeGuide Topical Bible Studies
By Jack Kuhatschek / InterVarsity Press Sometimes hope becomes so real that it’s almost tangible. But other times–especially when tragedy or hardship crashes down on us–we wonder whether our hopes will break down apart and leave us exposed, vulnerable and overwhelmed. These studies explore both sides of hope–confronting doubts and fears, but reminding us of the great joy that awaits us in Jesus Christ. 8 studies for individuals or groups with notes for leaders. |
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Finding God in the Broken Places, Women of Faith Study Guide Series
By Patsy Clairmont / Thomas Nelson Adapted from Patsy’s book All Cracked Up!, Finding God in the Broken Places helps women see that even in the midst of pain, a fractured life can be a happy life. Using her characteristic humor, she shares how we can move from broken to bedazzled by embracing our fragments and resting in the assurance that we have a Savior who knows how to piece them back together again. Includes 12 weeks of study, discussion/reflection questions, and a facilitator’s guide. |
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Waiting: A Bible Study on Patience, Hope, and Trust
By Sharla Fritz / Concordia Publishing House |
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Everyday Hope: Holding Fast to His Promise
By Katie Orr / New Hope Publishers Are you desperate to experience the hope of Christ in the everyday? Everyday Hope – an easy-to-use, four-week study – will help you discover how to hold fast to God’s promises amidst feelings of hopelessness. Exploring God’s Word in as few as 15 minutes a day, you’ll learn more about His promises as they apply to you now and in the everyday moments to come. |
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Unafraid Leader Guide: Living with Courage and Hope – eBook
By Adam Hamilton / Abingdon Press |
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The Joy Stealers Leader Guide: 5 Obstacles to Hope and Happiness – eBook
By Rob Renfroe / Abingdon Press |
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When The Going Gets Tough – Study Guide
By Discovery House When your journey through life comes to a series of ups and downs, holding on and sustaining the ride can be tough. This study, excerpted from Joe Stowell’s book The Upside of Down, offers you hope and encouragement. You’ll explore the seven different types of trials and gain a better understanding of why God allows them. Discover how you can stay the course and respond to challenges through the confidence of God’s Word. Six Studies for Groups or Individuals. |
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Finding Hope When Life Seems Dark: Hosea, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah
By Kay Arthur / Harvest House Publishers In this booklet you’ll study five of the prophets who ministered to both the northern and southern kingdoms before the exile of the southern kingdom to Babylon. Though God commissioned His prophets to preach unique messages to different audiences, He gave them a common theme—hope when life seems dark. As you study these, you too will find hope. Group or individual study includes a daily guide to help you discover truth for yourself, questions for discussion, a thought for the week, and a memory challenge. |
How to Get Past Disappointment: Finding Hope
By Michelle McKinney Hammond / Harvest House Publishers
In How to Get Past Disappointment Michelle McKinney Hammond explores the biblical story of the woman at the well. Hope awaits those who are willing to open their hearts to Jesus during disappointments in life. Jesus is merciful and his blessings are attainable. This book has study questions pertinent to the 6-session DVD study that encourages women to assess where they are in their relationship with Christ.
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2020 Graduation Keyring
By Cathedral Art Metal Co Class of 2020 diploma keyring in graduation cap gift box;inspiring, practical, affordable.
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Jeremiah 29:11 Graduation Frame
By Heartfelt A unique gift to honor the Christian graduate, and a handsome diploma frame; space for photograph, tassel and your diploma in classic dark frame 25″ wide x 14.75″ high.Double matting with gold; space for 4″ x 6″ photo; Scripture verse quote “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11. Suitable for high school, college graduation, or graduate degree; a lifetime milestone keepsake. Classic dark frame with glass; ready to hang on the wall. |
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2020 The Places You’ll Go Graduation Bracelet, Silver
By Cathedral Art Metal Co Graduation bangle bracelet, trending style with charms for the class of 2020.Adjustable silver-tone bracelet with charms: 2020 medallion, Pray tag, crystal bead, and hammered charm engraved – Oh, the places you’ll go!. Gift boxed in mortarboard graduation cap with tassel. Quote from Dr. Seuss; bestselling grad bracelet. Bestselling grad gift. |
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CSB Nurse’s Bible, Navy LeatherTouch
By Holman Bible Publishers The CSB Nurse’s Bible features 7-point type in a convenient, easy-to-carry compact size, in addition to an extended devotional section containing 60 pages of information and inspiration for those medical professionals who form the frontline of healthcare around the world. The extended devotional section includes articles, prayers, and spiritual guidance provided by the Nurses Christian Fellowship/USA and edited by Judith Allen Shelly, R.N. B.S.N., M.A., D.Min, who has won numerous awards from the Evangelical Press Association. The CSB Nurse’s Bible is a special gift for nurses that they will be sure to treasure for years to come. Other features include:
The CSB Nurse’s Bible features the highly reliable, highly readable text of the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), which stays as literal as possible to the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity. The CSB’s optimal blend of accuracy and readability makes Scripture more moving, more memorable, and more motivating to read and share with others. |
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Praying God’s Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds, Paperback Edition
By Beth Moore / B&H Books Beth Moore’s #1 perennial best-selling book Praying God’s Word is now available in paperback. In this book, Beth encourages everyone to overcome the spiritual strongholds in their lives by incorporating Scripture into their daily prayer. No matter how overwhelmed you may feel today, Moore boldly reminds us that nothing is bigger or more powerful than the Lord. With this landmark book we learn to wield the sword of the Spirit, praying God’s Word to break free from anything that has a hold on us until the joy and authority of Christ rules in our lives. Paperback. |
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2020 Graduate Tee Shirt, Large (42-44)
By Red Letter 9 Inc Class of 2020 Graduation t-shirt, with bold collegiate design and Scripture quote from Jeremiah 29:11; “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Order early for senior photos, trips, and celebrations! |
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2020 Graduation Throw
By Simply Home Graduation throw blanket, Class of 2020, with ivy design, cap and diploma, and Scripture verse. “For I know plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11.
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God Has Great Plans For You Journal, Faux Leather, Gray
By Brownlow Gifts
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101 Blessings for a #1 Teacher
By Christian Art Gifts Box of 50 Scripture cards and encouraging quotes, a box of blessings for teachers. Inspirational gift of 50 double-sided cards attractively packaged in a box to keep in a pocket, purse, or desk. Box is 2.5″ x 3.75″ x 1″; each card is 2.25″ x 3.25″. |
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Teach Inspire Motivate Tumbler with Straw
By Christian Art Gifts Gift idea to inspire and thank that very special teacher: trending artisan design and words of encouragement and appreciation in fresh new design elements.Plastic tumbler with straw holds 16 ounces; double-walled; tested for lead/BPA free. Not for mw/dw. Teach, Inspire, Dream |
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The Influence of a Teacher Can Never Be Erased Framed Art
By P Graham Dunn Inc. Light as a Feather Collection
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Best Teacher Ever Glass Water Bottle
By Christian Art Gifts Water bottle designed with a great teacher in mind
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In God We Trust, Flag, Shirt, Navy Blue, Large
By Kerusso We are so blessed to live in America, and enjoy the privilege of sharing our faith out loud. We can worship God, meet together at church, pray anywhere, and any way we want to. Share your heart for the Lord and our great nation in this “In God We Trust” witness tee from Kerusso® Details:
Front: In God We Trust |
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Stand Strong, Soldiers, Shirt, Black, X-Large
By Kerusso A cool, inspirational T-shirt is an easy way to open the door to casual conversations about faith. Introduce everyone you meet to His Word when you wear this “Stand Soldiers” shirt from Kerusso®! This awesome tee will remind you, and those around you, that fighting the good fight is a lifelong gig, and God puts us in certain places, at certain times, to lend love, strength, and courage to those around us who also seek God’s face. Details:
Message: |
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Be the Warrior God Called You to Be Shirt, Black, Large
By Kerusso Hold Fast When you give your life to Jesus, you need not walk in the shadow of fear, or worry about defeat. Not one of us has to do battle alone. Because of faith, we can claim victory in the name of Jesus. Lend courage to others and share this Good News by wearing this Christian “Warrior” t-shirt. Front: Be The Warrior God Called You To Be 1 JN. 5:4 Left sleeve: Hold Fast Details:
Celebrating American heritage, patriotism, and faith in God, Kerusso’s Hold Fast™ Christian apparel line is designed for individuals who follow has faith in God, his country, and in his family, and isn’t afraid to show it! All items in this fearless line are pro-military, pro-veteran, pro-faith, pro-family, and pro-freedom! |
And of course we’ve included our CEO’s book:
God, Love, and Marshmallow Wars: 365 Daily Challenges to Grow Your Marriage
By Julia M. Bruce / WestBow Press
There’s no doubt that marriage is hard work. Yet it can also be one of the most fulfilling relationships you can experience, outside of your relationship with God. However, many marriages leave God outside of the relationship. Godly marriages do not happen without cultivating it, investing in it, and putting God first in your individual lives and in your marriage.
This book includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:
• Scripture to memorize and meditate on
• Conversation Starters
• Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages
• Romance Builders
• Relationship Builders
• Personal reflections
• Date ideas
• Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples
