March 13. A Living Spring
J.R. Miller teaches that true spiritual life and satisfaction come from Christ, the living spring within the soul, which quenches all thirst eternally.
In this devotional sermon, J.R. Miller explores the profound truth that the soul’s deepest thirst can only be quenched by Christ, the living spring within. Using the biblical illustration of the dove and the teaching of Jesus, Miller emphasizes that true religion is not external but a new spiritual life rooted in God. Listeners are encouraged to seek this eternal fountain of life that sustains and satisfies beyond all worldly desires.
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"But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again — ever! In fact, the water I will give him will become a well of water springing up within him for eternal life!" John 4:14
The soul was made for God, and when it returns to God — it finds peace and satisfaction. It is not meant, of course, that the Christian has no more natural desires; for longing is the very condition of more blessedness. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled." If there is no thirst — there really is no life.
The dove that flew away from the ark went on weary wing everywhere — but found only a wide waste of desolate waters, with no place to alight. Then she flew back to the ark, and was gently drawn inside, where she found warmth, safety, and rest.
The story of the dove illustrates the history of the soul that wanders everywhere seeking rest, at last returning to God. How much better if men believed this truth of universal experience — and went at once to God! An immortal soul, from its very nature, cannot find what it needs anywhere, except in God Himself.
This word of Christ tells us also what true religion is. It begins in the heart. It is not something external — a mere set of rules or laws to be obeyed, a guide to be followed, an example to be copied. It is new spiritual life in the soul. It is Christ Himself coming into the heart and dwelling there. It is a fountain of life, not a mere cistern — but a living spring open and ever flowing. It is fed from Heaven, and no matter then how dry this world may be — this living fountain in the heart shall never be exhausted, for its connection is with the river of life, which flows out from under God\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Soul's Natural Thirst
- The soul is created for God and longs for Him
- Without thirst, there is no true spiritual life
- Longing leads to greater blessedness
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II. The Illustration of the Dove
- The dove’s search for rest symbolizes the soul’s wandering
- True rest is only found by returning to God
- The ark represents safety and peace in God
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III. The Nature of True Religion
- True religion begins in the heart, not external rules
- It is new spiritual life with Christ dwelling within
- Christ is the living spring that never runs dry
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IV. The Eternal Fountain of Life
- The living spring is fed from Heaven
- It sustains the soul regardless of worldly dryness
- Connection with God provides eternal satisfaction
Key Quotes
“But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again — ever!” — J.R. Miller
“The soul was made for God, and when it returns to God — it finds peace and satisfaction.” — J.R. Miller
“True religion is new spiritual life in the soul. It is Christ Himself coming into the heart and dwelling there.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- Recognize and embrace your soul’s longing as a sign of spiritual life.
- Return to God daily to find true rest and satisfaction in Him.
- Cultivate a personal relationship with Christ as the living spring within your heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 'living spring' symbolize?
It symbolizes Christ dwelling within the believer, providing eternal spiritual life and satisfaction.
Why is thirst important in spiritual life?
Thirst represents the soul's longing for God, which is essential for true spiritual vitality and growth.
How does the story of the dove relate to the soul?
The dove’s wandering and return to the ark illustrate the soul’s search for rest and ultimate peace found only in God.
Is true religion about following rules?
No, true religion is about Christ coming into the heart and creating new spiritual life, not merely external obedience.
What sustains the living spring in the believer’s heart?
It is sustained by a heavenly connection to God, ensuring the spring never runs dry.