Are You Overflowing or Running Dry?
Many Christians wonder why their faith feels stagnant. They attend church, read their Bibles, and pray—yet something seems missing. Jesus promised in John 7:38, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” But if this promise is true, why do so many believers feel spiritually drained instead of overflowing with life?
This verse is not just a poetic metaphor; it’s a radical, life-changing reality. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the insights behind Jesus’ words. We’ll also uncover why many fail to experience this flow—and how you can break free.
Purpose of John 7:38: What Did Jesus Mean?
Jesus made this bold statement during the Feast of Tabernacles, a celebration where priests would pour water over the altar, symbolizing God’s provision in the wilderness. In this setting, Jesus stood up and declared that He, not religious rituals, was the true source of living water.
What is “Living Water”?
In biblical terms, “living water” refers to the Holy Spirit (John 7:39). Unlike stagnant water, which is lifeless, living water is constantly moving, refreshing, and sustaining life. Jesus was offering something greater than religion—He was promising the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit to all who believe in Him.
This promise echoes Isaiah 58:11: “You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” Those who believe in Christ are not just filled; they become sources of spiritual nourishment for others.
But here’s the problem—many believers aren’t experiencing this overflow. Why?
Principle of John 7:38: The Spiritual Law of Overflow
The key principle behind this verse is spiritual overflow. When you believe in Jesus—not just intellectually but fully trusting in Him—you don’t just receive life, you give it. Faith transforms you into a conduit of divine grace.
Biblical Examples of Overflowing Faith
- The Widow at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16) – She gave Elijah her last bit of oil and flour, and God made sure her supply never ran dry.
- Peter’s Shadow (Acts 5:15) – His very presence brought healing, demonstrating the abundance of God’s power in him.
- Paul’s Chains (Philippians 1:12-14) – Even in prison, Paul overflowed with faith, inspiring other believers to be bold.
Each of these people poured out, and God poured in. This is the law of spiritual overflow—you must give to receive.
But what stops many believers from experiencing this?
Why Some Never Overflow
1. The Clogged Well: Spiritual Stagnation
Jesus spoke these words at the Feast of Tabernacles, where people celebrated how God provided water in the wilderness (Exodus 17:6). But many of the people listening to Him were spiritually dry—they were following rituals, but their hearts were far from God.
Situation: Are You Stagnant?
- Do you feel like your faith is just routine?
- Do you lack passion and joy in your relationship with God?
- Are you holding onto sin that’s blocking the flow of God’s Spirit?
2. The Broken Cistern: Seeking Water from the Wrong Source
Jeremiah 2:13 says, “My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.”
Many believers today are running on empty wells—they look to social media, relationships, money, or even ministry for fulfillment instead of Jesus.
Context: Why Are You Running Dry?
- Are you seeking fulfillment in temporary things?
- Are you relying on your strength instead of God’s power?
3. The Untapped Fountain: Not Walking in the Spirit
Jesus’ promise in John 7:38 was fulfilled after His resurrection when He sent the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4). But many believers today are not walking in the Spirit, meaning they are saved but not empowered.
Questions to Consider:
- Are you filled with the Holy Spirit, or just going through the motions?
- Do you spend time in God’s presence daily?
- Are you actively serving others, allowing God’s power to flow through you?
Answers: How to Experience the Overflow
If you’re feeling spiritually drained, here’s how you can activate the flow of living water in your life:
1. Stay Connected to the Source (John 15:5)
Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” Just like a tree draws water from its roots, you must draw your strength from Christ.
How?
- Prioritize daily prayer and Bible study.
- Remove distractions that pull you away from God.
- Develop a spirit of worship—not just on Sundays, but every day.
2. Pour Out to Be Filled (Luke 6:38)
Jesus said, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”
How?
- Serve without expecting anything in return.
- Speak life-giving words over others.
- Allow God’s Spirit to lead your actions.
3. Let the Holy Spirit Flow Freely (Ephesians 5:18)
Paul commands believers to “be filled with the Spirit.” This is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.
How?
- Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you daily.
- Be sensitive to His voice and guidance.
- Obey His promptings, even when they don’t make sense.
Summary: John 7:38 and the Jesus Connection
John 7:38 points directly to Jesus as the source of all spiritual life. He is:
- The Greater Moses – He provides eternal water, not just temporary relief.
- The True Temple – From Him flows life, just like Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 47:1-12).
- The Fulfillment of the Feast of Tabernacles – He doesn’t just remind us of God’s provision; He is God’s provision.
If you believe in Jesus, you already have access to this river. But are you letting it flow?
Two Life-Changing Applications
- Be a Conduit, Not a Container
- Instead of merely receiving, focus on giving—mentorship, encouragement, prayer, generosity.
- Stay Connected to the Source
- Just as a river must stay connected to its source, you must remain connected to Christ through prayer, scripture, and obedience.
Final Thought: Will You Overflow?
Many believers live as though they’re in a desert, yet Jesus offers an endless river. The choice is yours: Will you let the living water flow?
