Is it the norm for you to be maxed out? Are you finding it tough to integrate your walk with Christ with the complexities, pressure, seductions you name it – of your world of work? Good grief! Of course! Its a rat race out there! What else is new? Well, if your answers to the questions above are yes, and YES!, then S-L-O-W-L-Yand prayerfully read the material below. This piece is taken from the writings of a 17th century French believer, Francois de Fenelon: 1
You need to take time to turn to God. Do not pray only when you have set aside time to do so. The busier you are, the more you must practice turning to God. If you wait until the time is convenient, there is little doubt that you will end up spending little time with God.
Try to come before God both in the morning and in the evening.
Pray during and between all your other jobs as much as you can. You cannot retire too much from the mindless chatter of the world. Learn to steal this time in little snatches, and you will find these moments the most precious part of your day.
You dont need much time to tell God that you love Him. Lift your heart to Him:
– Worship Him in the depths of your spirit.
– Offer Him what you do and what you suffer.
– Tell God the most important things that occur to you.
– Tell Him what stands out to you as you read the Bible.
– Cling to your dearest Friend.
– Live in Him with unbounded trust.
– Speak to him out of a heart of love.
As you learn to continually turn your spirit toward the loving presence of God within you, you will find yourself strengthened to do what is required of you. Here is the kingdom of God coming to life within.
These times of inward retirement are the only solution for your quick temper, critical nature, and impatience. Turning to God will help you, but you need to do it frequently. As God draws you to Himself, follow Him in complete trust. Love him as you would wish to be loved. Does this sound extravagant? It is not giving Him too much. As He shows you new ways to love Him, then do so. Speak and act without too much planning and self-examination. Set your eyes on God and you will feel less of a need to please others. The wonderful thing is that you may end up pleasing them more.
Jesus: "Are you tired? Worn out…? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with mewatch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly" (Matt. 11:28-30 Msg).
This week, may you experience His grace, peace, and protection.
R. Dwight Hill
1 The Seeking Heart – Francois de Fenelon, Vol. 4, Library of Spiritual Classics, pgs, 75, 76 – Christian Books Publishing House, MCMXCII