GENESIS 26:18. “And Isaac digged again the wells of water, which they had digged in the days of Abraham his father; for the Philistines had stopped them after the death of Abraham: and he called their names after the names by which his father called them.”
DIG AGAIN. Basic necessity demanded hard labor for man and beast alike to survive There is no simple way to get that for which the body and soul craves – In order for the life-giving flow to meet the need so great, a cost must be paid. Water flows deep below but effort must be made to quench the thirst that returns. Again, and again the sound of life-giving water is heard from the darkness – And again, and again the need is met as those who serve, draw from the well - for others.
The ancient “friend of God” knew the need was great and didn’t stop – Until the water found was poured out, he could not rest for life is in that water. From place to place, wherever divine guidance led, he dug and dug again – A watching son, saw the places and heard the names until - impressed on a young mind, When his time came; when responsibility had passed to him, he knew where to dig again. Nearby enemies had done their deeds of fundamental challenge – but he knew where to dig again.
Our fathers taught us: the respect and honor deserved must be given in sincerity regardless – Even though the changing times seem to negate the value of a spoken word – dig again. When others’ handshake may be steeped with deceit – you are your father’s son – dig again. Shifty eyes may seem to imply that words and actions are not the same – you must dig again. The names and places have not changed there is a well of springing water to find – dig again. Strife may come from characterless “others” – they may live by darkened minds – you dig again.
The altar and the well go good together; one for God alone and one for man to share –
The one giving to God His rightful due and pleasure; the other to refresh the man that gives. Whether one is on his knees in worship and in thoughtful praise, or drawing from the well to drink – There will be that which seeks to hinder; to fill the well with earth that stops the life-flow fast. Dig again – remove all useless clutter; the water’s there – you know the place and name. Dig and dig again – the Lord makes room for you to bear for Him much fruit – dig again.
“I know Thy wells are full of water, O God: there are so many who are not satisfied with water, they only want wine, or worse. The mix of water and earth make mud or muddy water at the best. I want that springing, clear, flowing water of everlasting life that satisfies and never runs dry. Give me the shovel of thirst for Thee. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”