These words suggest images that convey much. Thirst is a terrible thing. But “thirsting not” powerfully suggests this necessary craving will be continuously satisfied. It is a powerful suggestion of continuing revelation given to those who follow God. He will satisfy their need for drink by giving the living waters which alone satisfy the thirst for understanding. Personal revelation, given continuously, and without limit to those who seek for it, will produce a people who “thirsted not.” Even though the world may be a desert without revelation, where people live under a brass heaven that refuses to respond to them, you can still live in an oasis. This is the message to God’s people in any age. It is what Nephi enjoyed, and offered to his brothers. It is what is offered in our day.
The “rock” providing “gushing water” is another powerful image. We think it an unlikely source of water, because rocks do not normally produce water. And yet it did in Moses’ case. This event suggests revelation can come from unlikely sources. Just as water comes from the rock, so, too, revelation can come from obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. Like looking to the brass serpent and living, keeping the commandments can open the heavens and bring revelation. We think it unlikely; we doubt, and therefore disobey. But the truth is that through simple means (our obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel) great things are made to happen.