River of Life

Rivers offer much to the people who live on their banks. They bring water to thirsty people. Their water is used for household tasks such as washing clothes and floors. Many parts of the world use river water for irrigation, so they are important to farmers producing food. Sometimes rivers provide a mode of transportation. Industries often build along rivers because they need the water a river brings.
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A river’s importance was perhaps even more apparent in Biblical times than today. Although Abraham’s nephew Lot had traveled with his uncle, there came a time when they were too prosperous for the land to support both. Abraham—knowing he was blessed to be a blessing—offered Lot first pick, and Lot chose the valley of the River Jordan. He looked down and saw it was a well-watered plain. (Gen. 13)

Throughout the Bible, rivers provide an analogy for God’s blessing. A psalmist said, There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God. (Ps. 46:4 NIV) Although people who trust God are not immune to problems, they can turn to Him. And He becomes their personal life-giving river.

Originally published June 8, 1984.