The day God rested. Today, with Christmas only a few days off, all of the
Holiday activities in full swing at home, work, school, and at church...how
could you even think about resting? Today, let's take our cue from God and
rest, relax, and let Him refresh us. I found many years ago, that when I
put
all of the busy activities of life on hold and just kicked back for a day, I
was able to get much more accomplished. It makes sense. You are rested,
refreshed, your mind is clear, and you have renewed energy. In that state
we
can accomplish quite a lot. But when we are tired, we can't give our best
effort, we can't think clearly, we tend to make hasty unprayerful decisions
that come back to haunt us, and we just don't enjoy life.
If anyone ever needed this devotional today, it is me. If these words God
has led me to share with you today are for anyone, they may be for me. I
have a terrible habit of getting so focused, so driven by the things that
need to be done each day, that I sacrifice that quiet time, that time of
refreshing we all need on a regular basis. Again, if after 6 days of
creating the world and everything in it, God rested, maybe we should realize
that we need a day of rest too. Jesus in His earthly ministry is described
many times as "getting away by Himself". If Our Lord realized the need for
a time of refreshing from time to time, shouldn't we?
I am not going any deeper today than to give you this challenge. I know the
date on the calendar. I know the time on the clock. I challenge you today
to put off all of those "pressing" matters you "have" to take care of. Turn
off the cell phone. Maybe it is as simple as going home, getting into
something comfortable, and just watching TV, or playing with your kids, or
spending some quality time alone with your wife, or doing something relaxing
with your family or friends. Make today a day of rest. You need it. God
wants you to do it so that you can be fresh, sharp, and the best you
possibly can be for Him.
I am praying that in the midst of the hectic lives so many lead, you will
hear these words and make an effort to rest and relax today. I love you,
care
for you, and know God will honor your desire to be His instrument, sharp,
ready, energized, and prepared for the work He has given you to do. Let His
peace, His presence, and His love consume you this day. Let Him recharge your
batteries and rekindle that fire inside of you to serve Him. May you know
the calming presence of the Lord this day in a very special way.
