Wells of Salvation

Wells of Salvation

“Therefore with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” Isa. 12:3.

We all have our own circumstances and changing times. There are bright days, and there are days of trial—great and small. But we always have to do with God. His work is that we partake more and more of His life and nature. When J.O. Smith wrote about his trials on one occasion, he said: “But I wouldn’t have it any other way. That would rob me of divine power. As far as I’m concerned, such circumstances are extremely interesting and appropriate for me.”

He saw his trials as a well of salvation. Can we see it the same way in our own circumstances, so that we joyfully draw water from these wells of salvation in our daily lives? Can we, in the midst of trials and circumstances of various kinds, sense the voice of the Spirit, as He once again makes the word living for us—the word of patience, or the many commandments of love, or the laws of humility? Yes, He gives us words that are a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, so that we receive help to choose and fight rightly. There are inexhaustible wells to draw from here.

Paul also boasted in his tribulations, for we know, he says, that tribulation produces perseverance. What precious fruit from our tribulations! That is something entirely different from sighing and complaining about the times and circumstances. We, too, have this calling to draw heavenly riches from every single day, no matter what it brings—indeed, to joyfully seize every opportunity to gain the virtues of Christ.

But can we see our need and acknowledge our poverty—that we absolutely need to learn from Him who is gentle and lowly in heart? Is my goal to partake more fully of the divine life, to grow richer in mercy and good fruits, or am I stubborn and self-righteous, seeking only my own interests and my own will?

No, just think—we have been given eyes to see these wells of salvation, eyes to find my life and lose it for Jesus’ sake, so that we may sing: “I have found the way to heaven, and God’s kingdom grows like leaven.”