Be Committed to Staying Spiritually Hydrated

“You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11 NKJV

In a timely story published Wednesday titled “Central Arkansas runners brave heat with safety in mind,” the writer addressed the heatwave being felt across the Midwest—a heatwave that’s forecasted to continue until late next week and is causing many runners to stay indoors to avoid the blistering sun and sweltering humidity. But for a group of committed runners in Little Rock, the soaring temperatures weren’t enough to stop their training. Around 6 p.m., as the heat index hovered past triple digits, members of Rock City Running gathered for their regular group workout, despite the heat advisory in effect. “It’s Arkansas — it’s humid, it’s hot — but you learn how to prepare for it,” said Annette Blanton, a longtime participant in the group runs. “Hydration is a process. You can’t just drink 16 ounces of water right before a run and expect to be fine. That just causes sloshing in the belly.” Blanton went on to say that she hydrates throughout the day, alternating between water and electrolytes, and takes small sips during the run instead of big gulps. She also carries a handheld water bottle on every hot weather run. Blanton takes her hydration seriously! Hence the reason she and the other “committed” runners can keep training when the conditions are less than ideal. 

And, you know, Blanton takes hydration seriously because she knows the importance of it. She knows that she can’t run well if she’s not properly hydrated. Hence the reason she is “committed” to it. This is the same attitude we, as believers, need as well when it comes to spiritual hydration. You see, without the constant hydration (living water) we receive from spending consistent time in the presence of the Lord (through Bible study, meditation, and prayer) we will become weary, forlorn, lost, fatigued, and weighed down by the heat of our trials and tribulations. This is why we must spend time in the presence of the only One who provides the “fullness of joy” and “pleasures forevermore” we so desperately need. His constant guidance, encouragement, refreshing, enlightenment, and companionship fill our cups so we can continue running the spiritual race with all endurance. Which is the reason we have to be “committed” to seeking it! After all we can’t expect to reap the rewards of a close relationship with the Lord if we aren’t putting in the work to make it happen. 

So, if you’ve been less than committed to staying spiritually hydrated and are feeling the effects of that lack of dedication and devotion, make today the day you choose to be FULLY “committed” my friend. It will take time and effort, but the practice will reap great benefits both now and forevermore. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we can not run the race set before us without the spiritual hydration that your Presence provides. Help us to become committed to spending time with You Lord that we might reap both the daily and the eternal rewards that doing so provides. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!