There is a burning desire within each human being on this planet to know something or someone more so completely that ultimate satisfaction and peace are found. Some look to the workplace while others look to relationships. While still others look to the church. But when worship services, Bible studies, and even their own ministers fail to quench the desire within them they feel unsatisfied or perhaps even content that this is how their life will be. Yet always looking for the next "thing" to satisfy their spiritual thirst.
How sad a state of such a life! For nothing can cure the thirst in the soul of a man except Christ. Attending a service does nothing for the state of the soul. Bible studies in the end cannot and will not cure the dry mouth of the soul. Only a direct encounter with Christ will relieve the thirst found within the heart of man.
May these words of J.C. Ryle be an encouragement and conviction for those who thirst and have yet to experience a direct encounter with Jesus Christ.
"He that thirsts and wants relief must come to Christ Himself. He must not be content with coming to His church and His ordinances, or to the assemblies of His people for prayer and praise. He must not stop short even at His holy table, or rest satisfied with privately opening his heart to His ordained ministers. Oh, no! He that is content with only drinking these waters 'shall thirst again' (John 4:13). He must go higher, further, much further than this. He must have personal dealings with Christ Himself. All else in religion is worthless without Him. The King's palace, the attendant servants, the richly furnished house, the very banquet itself - all are nothing unless we speak with the King. His hand alone can take the burden off our backs and make us feel free. The hand of man may take the stone from the grave and show the dead; but none but Jesus can say to the dead, 'Come forth and live' (John 11:41-43). We must deal directly with Christ." (Holiness, J.C. Ryle)
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