Abide | Midyear Prayer and Fasting (English)Sample

The Word of God Is Like Rain

Read Isaiah 55:10–11

"For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

Additional Reading: Isaiah 55:1–9; Hebrews 12:1–3

Isaiah 55 depicts the condition of the Israelites after they turned their backs on God. They were in captivity, disheartened, and unsure of their future. Because of His great love for them, God invited them to return to Him. He wanted them to listen to and abide in Him. He reminded them that they could find forgiveness, satisfaction, security, and restoration only in Him. He then assured them He would reveal His thoughts and ways through His Word.

Interestingly, God likens His Word to rain, which does not return to the sky unless it has served its purpose of watering the earth. Not much vegetation can grow or thrive on the hardened and parched ground during the dry season. However, the dry and dusty land gradually transforms into a lush, fertile field when it rains. Plants begin sprouting and growing. Flowers on trees start producing seeds, which eventually bear fruit. These then become food for birds and other animals that come out to find shelter among them. The fields also produce a bountiful harvest for people to enjoy. Though all of these things take time, the rain never returns to the atmosphere unless it has watered and transformed the dry land into a flourishing habitat.

Likewise, God’s Word will never return to Him until it has served its purpose. His Word will nourish and satisfy our souls, especially when there is dryness and unfruitfulness. As we respond in faith by believing and abiding in His Word, God will restore and transform our lives.

However, there may be times when the change is not apparent. We may feel like we are not growing or maturing, even tempted to revert to old habits or search for answers elsewhere. We may still have insecurities and worry, and we may be unable to forgive those who have wronged us. His Word assures us that He is working in us. Though transformation can be instant, it often involves a long process.

Therefore, while we wait, let us continue reading, meditating on, believing in, and obeying God’s Word. We can be confident that His Word will fulfill His purpose as we remain in Him. His Word will transform us, enabling us to flourish and live the fruitful life He has planned for us. God will transform our once dry, meaningless, and unrighteous life into a life characterized by Christlikeness, inexplicable joy, complete peace, and overflowing love. God can use such a changed life to glorify Him and reflect His love to others.

God’s Word will accomplish His purpose in us.

• What are some things you are trying to find satisfaction in instead of Christ? Identify some practical ways you can turn from these and rely on God.
• In what areas in your life do you want to experience transformation? How do you think this will happen?
• Are there areas in your life that take longer for change to happen? What do you think God is teaching you about this?

“For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:10–11

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your word that satisfies my soul. You have promised to make every aspect of my life flourish as I continue to abide in Your word. Give me the grace to persevere, knowing that You will bring forth growth and transformation in my life at Your appointed time. Thank You for Your word, which never fails to accomplish Your purpose. May my life glorify You and reflect Your love for others. In Jesus’ name, amen.