In his book, Water from a Deep Well, Theology Professor Gerald Sittser suggests that many modern Christians suffer from spiritual shallowness because they only draw from contemporary sources. The past, he argues, provides deep nourishment for faith and discipleship.
Sittser then offers this observation and indictment of modern Christianity:
“Much of what we see and experience in contemporary Christianity is not leading us into the depths of God. If anything, it is making us feel restless and dissatisfied.
‘There must be more than this!’ we say to ourselves.
“We grow weary of trivial controversies and petty jealousies that divide the church, massive buildings and glittery programs that dazzle but do not make disciples, self-help sermons that gloss over the great truths of the biblical faith, styles of worship that pander to popular tastes, Christian leaders who strive for political influence at the cost of faithfulness to the gospel.”
Sittser asserted that our spiritual growth and development can be enriched through the historical accounts of martyrs, missionaries, reformers, and the lives of faithful “ordinary Christians.”
Our spiritual thirst can also be quenched by drinking deeply from the Old Testament book of Psalms.
If you’re following Mark Roberts’ 5-day Bible reading program, you will encounter Psalm 42 this week. Don’t miss it. The first two verses offer this insight and challenge:
As the deer pants for the water brooks,
So pants my soul for You, O God.My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When shall I come and appear before God?
The Psalm is authored by the sons of Korah, worship leaders in the Old Testament sanctuary. Their section of Psalms is deeply personal and contemplative—fluctuating between faith and despair, all the while longing for the Lord, remembering God, and ultimately trusting in Him.
The writer sees a deer struggling during a drought to find water, panting as it seeks to quench its thirst. The author is reminded of his deep spiritual longing for the soul’s refreshment.
This passage inspired the worship and praise song by Martin Nystrom:
As the deer pants for the water,
So my soul longs after You.
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship You.I want You more than gold or silver,
Only You can satisfy.
You alone are the real joy-giver
And the apple of my eye.
Both the Psalm and the hymn challenge us to drink deeply from the water of life—to move beyond shallow spirituality, reject empty ritual, and cultivate a faith that extends far beyond a single hour on Sunday. They call us to “hunger and thirst after righteousness” every day.
Drinking deeply challenges us to examine our faith and seek a closer connection with the Lord. Here are a dozen suggestions that may encourage a more intimate Divine association.
- Really study Scripture instead of merely listening to others teach it.
- Engage in Biblical research instead of casual reading alone.
- Slow down and spend time in meditation and prayer.
- Turn off the television, put down the iPhone, and pursue meaningful spiritual conversations.
- Attend a men’s retreat or women’s spiritual weekend.
- Sit in solitude while contemplating the message of hymns and spiritual songs.
- Read books that strengthen your faith and understanding.
- Watch thoughtful presentations on science and Christianity.
- Participate in a marriage enrichment retreat.
- Journal insights from your Bible reading.
- Revisit your Sunday sermon notes for further reflection.
- Take time away to rest, read, reflect, and commune with the Lord.
Reject the “Health and Wealth” gospel and the latest fads and gimmicks that attract so many with something new. Return to the fundamentals of faith. Seek the Lord. Grow your faith. Fellowship with other believers. Drink deeply of the water of life.
Then you can echo the refrain of Nystrom’s hymn:
You alone are my strength, my shield,
To You alone may my spirit yield.
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship You.
—Ken Weliever, The Preacherman
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