Well

<<water supply>>

As a reliable source of water was a necessity for people and livestock, wells were a focal point of ancient societies. People camped near them or built cities adjacent to them. A well needed an underground source of water, requiring effort to initially dig down to the water supply, then the ongoing toil to lift the water to the surface (Ex 15:27; Jn 4:6,7,11). This is in contrast to a spring continually gushing water that is available with minimal effort.

Wells Filled In by Enemies

During times of conflict and conquest in the Old Testament, enemies would often fill in wells with dirt and stones to deny their adversaries access to water—the most essential resource for survival (Gen 26:15, 18). This strategic destruction cut off the life-giving supply and weakened the people. Isaac, however, modelled perseverance when he "re-dug the wells... that had been dug in the time of his father Abraham, which the Philistines had stopped up" (Gen 26:18). He actively removed the obstacles to restore access to the water.

This powerful image speaks to our spiritual lives: the enemy continually seeks to fill in the wells of our heart with the debris of distraction, compromise, busyness, and sin—blocking our access to the living water of God's presence. Just as Isaac had to proactively clear the wells to regain the life-giving water, how much more should we be diligent in removing the obstacles that hinder our fellowship with God. We must intentionally re-dig the wells of prayer, Scripture, worship, and communion with the Holy Spirit. The water is still there beneath the surface—God's supply never runs dry—but we must do the work of clearing away what the enemy has used to block our access.

Living Water

Jesus claimed to be the 'water of life' (living water) and developed this further saying, "He that believes in me, out of his inner being will flow streams of living water" (Jn 4:14, 7:38). From the divine supply within (because of the Holy Spirit's presence), we are refreshed and then we become channels through which the life-giving water can flow out to bless others. God spoke to Isaiah saying "With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation" – like water, salvation is life-giving and sustaining (Isa 12:3).

See also: channel, living water. springs, water.

<<healthy>>

Relating to a person's physical condition, free or recovered from illness.

See also: healing, health, wellbeing.

Is there evidence of His life flowing out from me to others?

Am I actively clearing the wells of my heart, or have I allowed the enemy to fill them in?