January 9: Rivers of Living Water
The more united we are to God in prayer, the more naturally that source flows out from its inner spring, becoming a stream of action in relationship to others. — Phileena Heuertz
Gregg’s Reflection
The Ground of Being is a phrase many saints and mystics use to describe God. To be grounded is to be deeply connected to the Source. Just as electrical current will not flow unless there is a ground to complete the circuit, the Holy Spirit cannot flow through us unless we are grounded in God. Jesus promised, “Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.” That living water flows most freely when we are united to God in prayer and committed to regular contemplative practice.
Over the years, I have learned that my spiritual rhythm—daily, weekly, and monthly—keeps me grounded. When I am coaching, I am often aware of the Spirit’s presence flowing through me. In my busiest career years, I discovered a simple rhythm that changed everything: early mornings alternating between exercise and silent meditation with God.
It gave me the sense that I had done something good for myself before the day began, and my work was better for it. That rhythm eventually expanded into what some call a Rule of Life, though I prefer to think of it as a Rhythm of Life.
Remaining rooted in the Ground of Being allows us to become conduits of Spirit, touching and healing others. The more we give God the “first fruits” of our day, the more our lives are marked by peace, clarity, and spiritual flow. When the rivers run freely, we are refreshed—and so are those around us.
Scripture
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. — Isaiah 12:3
Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water. — John 7:38
Ancient Quotes
He who drinks of the water that Jesus gives is satisfied with the abundance of truth; and, receiving of the Holy Spirit, he himself becomes a fountain to others.— Origen, Commentary on the Gospel of John, Book XIII, §30
As we draw continually from the fountain of life, the more our thirst is kindled, the more deeply we drink, until the soul itself becomes a flowing spring, sending forth streams of grace to others.— Gregory of Nyssa, Homilies on the Song of Songs, XI
Modern Quote
The more united we are to God in prayer, the more naturally that source flows out from its inner spring, becoming a stream of action in relationship to others. — Phileena Heuertz, Mindful Silence, p. 43
Journaling Prompts
- When have you felt God’s Spirit flowing through you to others?
- What blocks or dams that flow in your life right now?
- How might you open yourself to let God’s living water flow more freely?
- How will you make time each day to slow down and listen for the Spirit?
👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 2 reflection: Bearing Fruit/Gifts of the Spirit