“Give Me Also Springs”

“From there they went against the inhabitants of Debir. The name of Debir was formerly Kiriath-sepher.  And Caleb said, ‘He who attacks Kiriath-sepher and captures it, I will give him Achsah my daughter for a wife.’ And Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, captured it. And he gave him Achsah his daughter for a wife. When she came to him, she urged him to ask her father for a field. And she dismounted from her donkey, and Caleb said to her, ‘What do you want?’ She said to him, ‘Give me a blessing. Since you have set me in the land of the Negeb, give me also springs of water.’ And Caleb gave her the upper springs and the lower springs.” Judges 1:11-15

Caleb’s daughter had learned under a father who was brave and zealous with faith. What God had promised He would not only give, but He would supply for His people all they needed to make the most of that gift. Now it was her time to request the “also” in order to capitalize on the land allotted to her, and she boldly did so. Land is good, and springs provide the water necessary to make them fruitful. (Numbers 13:17-30)

We have been given much by way of health, dwelling, and work, but when we hum along with a horizontal mindset, we can grow complacent about making the most of what has been entrusted to us. We skim by. We do the minimal. We have no vision for flourishing, no drive to multiply, and limited desire for sharing or passing on.

But the Lord has made us to make more and the most of what we have. He gives ten talents and expects ten more. He’s fashioned us with specific abilities and resources not to rest on or hoard them, but to engage the Spirit’s power to put them to work. Our faithfulness and well-doing brings greater responsibility and great joy. (Matthew 25:14-29)

Where have I settled for mediocrity? Where am I languishing in fervor, or turned inward and selfish in my choices and activities? Has greed overtaken generosity, sloth swallowed servanthood, or pampering replaced purposefulness? What will urge me to ask my Father for different and more? (Romans 12:11)

What specific treasure has God entrusted to me? Would I regularly take inventory, then open my hands and say, ‘Lord, give me also springs so these might be put to most productive, God-honoring use’? The Spirit waters us with counsel, spiritual wisdom, and power to make the most of who He’s made us to be. His welling up in us flourishes forth in abundant, benevolent living. He supplies love and grace for relationships, discernment and vitality for industry, passion and focus for service. (John 7:38-39)

What is it we lack? Will we ask for His blessing of springs?

Father, You have entrusted me with much. Please give me also springs of courage, fortitude, zeal, and energy to be an honorable steward, that You are glorified and Your goodness is known.