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Day Twenty-Four

The Fountain of Life (Read Proverbs 10:11-22)

"A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles." ~ Washington Irving

Throughout your life, you have most likely drank from a drinking fountain, often called a water fountain or water bubbler. Attempting to drink from such a gadget can lead to a wide array of experiences, such as, but not limited to, the water barely coming out or shooting two feet into the air and soaking your face and clothes. The water might be warm or refreshingly cold, which is nice, especially on hot summer days. Some fountains seem clean and safe, others not so much. Choosing which fountain to drink out of is essential because poor outcomes could follow. The same is true when you select which fountain to drink from for wisdom; the good news is you have choices.

"The words of the godly" (10:11a) refers to the language of the heart of those who live a life of love and service because it attracts people desperate to receive a life-changing message of depth and weight, smothered with hope and sprinkled with love. In contrast, the hollow speech of the lost, who are self-centered to the extreme, seeking only personal gain, will squeeze the life out of anyone who will listen (10:11b). The teaching of the wise and obedience to God's spiritual principles are said to come from the fountain of life (see 13:14; 14:27).

"That which the fountain sends forth returns again to the fountain." ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Have you ever heard the phrase "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear?" there is much debate about its origins. Still, it is most often attributed to Buddha Siddhartha Guatama Shakyamuni and the Theosophists. Regardless of who came up with it, it is wisdom centered on the fountain of life. This is what Jesus was referring to in the Gospel passage when he said: "No one can come to me unless the Father draws him." (John 6:44) . And as James puts it: "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." (James 4:8).

Your desire and thirst for wisdom are gifts from God; you do not possess them because you are a person of high morals and, by default, godly. No, you are separated and lost by default, clinging to worldly vices for comfort and relying on yourself to change yourself. You are easy prey for the Prince of Darkness and willingly give an ear to his wicked pitch. God is calling for you, offering you a life-sustaining drink from the fountain of life. Choose wisely when deciding which fountain to drink from for wisdom and inspiration. It will significantly impact your life to come on earth and in heaven.

"If we learn to love the earth, we will find labyrinths, gardens, fountains, and precious jewels! A whole new world will open itself to us. We will discover what it means to be truly alive." ~ Teresa of Avila

Are you thirsty for a drink from the fountain of life? "YES," then grab a cup; better than that, immerse yourself in the water and prepare to stand up as a new creation, ready and eager to help change the world.