A Rest-filled Desire

I will be speaking God's Word this week at the Trinity Youth Camp in Keystone Heights, FL. I am praying and trusting the Lord for fruit that will remain. I am thankful for this great privilege.

Thought for the Day

2 Chronicles 15:15 And all Judah rejoiced at the oath: for they had sworn with all their heart, and sought him with their whole desire; and he was found of them: and the LORD gave them rest round about.

During troubling times in their nation, there were those in Israel who lived with peace in their hearts and rest in their souls because the Lord gave it to them. Joy, peace, and rest are continually available to the people of God from God Himself! The key to this rest is when they "sought Him with their whole desire". It is not an outward conformity to religious observances or church traditions that brings rest, but a heartfelt desire to please the Lord and walk in His ways.

Application

Where do you look for rest? Anything less than seeking it form the Lord with your whole desire will leave you empty. Examine your desires today by recognizing what occupies your mind the most today and turn that care to the Lord.

Needed Rest

Photo: Cheryl and I enjoyed a wonderful week away at Oasis, a retreat for pastors and their wives hosted by Pastor Jimmy Crocket (yellow shirt) and his wife Joy in Hendersonville, TN. It was great to spend some time with Charles and Sharon Shoemaker (right) and other friends as well.

Thought for the day

Mark 6:30-31 (30) And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. (31) And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.

Many times I have heard the phrase, "If you don't come apart, you will come apart." Simply put, we all need times of recreation and refreshment. The disciples had returned to Jesus excited about the work they had been able to accomplish through Him. Jesus, in His wisdom and insightfulness, could see the potential of burnout looming on the horizon and encouraged His followers to take a break.

So often we see great nobility in pushing ourselves to the limits for the work of the Lord or even in our every day pursuits and responsibilities. Although work is certainly noble and commended by the Lord, rest is an equally important part of a healthy and godly life. It is during these times of "coming apart" that we can refocus our attention and gather the needed strength and resources to move forward in life with optimal joy and purpose.

Application

Be sure to take time alone to gather yourself and your focus on the Lord. Plan some alone time today and some extended time in the near future. If you feel like you just don't have time, remember, "If you don't come apart, you will come apart"!