So far we have considered our thirst, as well as the idea that God has purposefully created this thirst within us to direct us to Him, the quencher of thirst. There remains and important and essential question which remains. What steps must be taken to quench that thirst in the quest for the sweet waters?
Donald Whitney, in Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health answers with three practical steps. First we ought to meditate on Scripture. The process of meditation often escapes me because of the “white noise” that often surrounds my thoughts. I find it simple, easy, and often ineffective to merely read Scripture. Here are some suggestions to move beyond mere reading and into effective meditation. Read Scripture with a pen in hand; then use the pen, to underline, remark on, and repeat the Word. I often try and utilize the cross references in my margins. When I discover one that is really pertinent – I emphasize the connection by writing the reference in my own handwriting.
Maybe you are not like and words aren’t your thing; try using the pen to doodle, scribble and just output the thoughts that you have as you pray about the Scripture you have read. You might illustrate a way that you can apply the Scripture in your life. No matter what you do, and how you do it, the goal is to linger over the Word of God. Let it soak into your soul so that you discover the sweet refreshing healing power and life is restored.
Second, we ought to pray through the Scriptures. This is especially effective if you are reading the Psalms, or other’s prayers themselves. I personally love looking for places where we have record of Jesus praying, or Paul when he prayed specifically for churches. I highlight those and carefully consider the pulse of the Holy Spirit in those and the appropriate application for today.
Finally, Whitney recommends reading “thirst-making writers.” After you read the Bible, read time-tested works of Christians who penned thirst-making words. As difficult as it can be, read the puritans, John Owen, John Flavel. Sermons of great preachers are always incredible, Jonathan Edwards and Charles Spurgeon are absolutely incredible. There have never been two men who communicate so clearly and so deeply as these two men. A.W. Tozer has classic books that are shorter and worth every ounce invested. Current men like John Piper, Tim Keller, Jerry Bridges, and more are also readily available. I would even go as far as finding some of these guys and following them on twitter or reading their blogs.
I trust that God will continue to be the one whom you thirst for and whom you find satisfying your thirsts. May we together enjoy the sweet quest for Him!