Introduction

Today, I want to share a message inspired by the poetic language found in Job 14:7-9. In this passage, Job speaks of a tree that appears dead and without hope, but miraculously comes back to life at the "scent of water." This imagery reminds us that God wants us to be like water carriers, bringing hope to those in need.

Text: Job 14:7-9 (NIV)

"For there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and its new shoots will not fail. Though its roots may grow old in the ground and its stump dies in the dry soil, at the scent of water it will bud and put forth branches like a young plant."

Explanation

Job, a man who experienced immense pain and loss, finds hope in observing nature around him. While he does not yet speak of the resurrection of the dead, he recognizes that nature itself demonstrates a form of revival. This message is particularly relevant for those facing seemingly hopeless situations. Hang on, help is on the way!

The Scent of Water:

The phrase "scent of water" is poetic language, as water itself does not have a smell. However, it symbolizes the refreshing and life-giving properties of water. Just as the first rain after a long dry spell brings a pleasant smell, it can also revive our spirits. Have you ever longed for rain after a spiritual drought? Are you facing a situation that seems beyond hope? God may be using this message to bring the scent of water to someone who desperately needs it.

Examples from Scripture

Let's look at two examples from the Bible that illustrate how hope can be revived at the scent of water.

1. Ezekiel and the Dry Bones (Ezekiel 37:1-12):

Ezekiel, a prophet in captivity, receives a vision from God. He finds himself in a valley filled with dry bones. These bones represent the hopelessness and spiritual death of the nation of Israel. Yet, God tells Ezekiel to prophesy over the bones, declaring that He will bring them back to life. This vision offers hope to a people who believed their hope had perished. God's promise of resurrection breathes life into their dry bones.

2. Hannah's Prayer (1 Samuel 1:13-18):

Hannah, unable to conceive, faces constant taunting from her husband's second wife. Year after year, she weeps bitterly, feeling hopeless and oppressed. However, when the high priest Eli prays for her and speaks a word of blessing, Hannah's countenance changes. The scent of water in Eli's prayer revives her spirit, breaking the power of her oppressor. Sometimes, a single word or prayer can bring new life to someone in desperate need of hope.

The Power of God's Word

But how can the scent of water revive something that is dead? How can a dead tree smell or hear? The answer lies in the power of God's words. Just as Lazarus heard Jesus' command to come forth from the grave, dead things can hear and smell when God speaks. The ability to revive and bring life does not depend on our physical senses but on the life-giving power of God's word.

Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV) beautifully illustrates this truth:

"As the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."

Conclusion

The scent of water can overcome destruction, decay, and even death. The power of God's life-giving word is greater than the power of death. As believers, we are called to be water carriers, bringing hope to those who are spiritually dry or facing seemingly impossible situations. Let us be attentive to the needs of others and share the scent of water through our testimonies, prayers, and acts of kindness.

Closing Prayer

Dear Lord, we thank you for the hope and life that your word brings. Help us to be vessels of your refreshing water, reviving the spirits of those around us. May we be sensitive to the needs of others and bring them the scent of water in their times of despair. In Jesus' name, amen.

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