I woke at 3 a.m. several days ago, already anxious about the day that hadn't started. My cell phone wasn't working, and neither was the refrigerator. I scheduled two appointments 15 minutes apart, but logistically they were 45 minutes away from each other. A friend with serious health issues was also on my mind. Frustration was what I felt. When I looked at the clock again, 3:07 a.m. Now what Lord? My day ahead of me is so full. How can I possibly be in those two places almost at the same time? Why can't anyone seem to fix my cell phone, even though I've taken it back to the store on several occasions, talked with many people at tech support. Why did the last person just tell me she was sorry but I would just have to live with the problem for the next year and a half when my contract is up? And, while we're at it Lord, what about the refrigerator? I know it's ten years old, but.....now?
As I tossed and turned trying to figure out everything myself, I realized I hadn't really prayed about it. I just told the Lord what was happening and what I planned to do.
Immediately the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart, Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.
The next time I looked at the clock it was 6:30 a.m.
I rolled out of bed feeling refreshed, revived and renewed. The refrigerator repair man would be on his way in a few hours. I turned my cell phone off.....at least for the morning. One of my appointments cancelled, and my friend got a call from a new doctor who understands the problem.
Thank you Lord..........
One comment I've been hearing a lot lately, especially from younger people is, "I'm too busy". Or "my life is so hectic". And of course, "I'm exhausted". All of those comments are words and expressions I have used myself over the years. So I can relate to what they are saying.
It wasn't until I reached this stage in my life, old age, that I realized the problem in my own life.
I didn't dedicate enough time to read the Bible. I didn't set aside time to worship. Everyday.
I had all the usual excuses. I'm too busy, I'm late for work, I have too many things to do now. It wasn't until I "grew up", spiritually of course, that I realized if I didn't set aside time for Him, I would never accomplish all the things He wanted me to do.
When I look at my calendar today, I often wonder why I tell people I'm retired. My calendar is worse today than it was when I actually "worked". However, the major difference today is I'm doing HIS work, not mine.
My calendar reflects the work He has laid out for me. I am no longer in control, nor do I want to be.
I feel a greater sense of accomplishment today than I did all those years ago.
The other major difference is my time alone with Him. If I have early morning appointments, I get up a little earlier. I spend at least an hour every morning worshiping my Lord. Reading my Bible, reading four devotionals, and praying for the countless people listed on the pages of my "prayer journal".
That's the difference...............Matthew 11:28 Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Webster's dictionary defines "burn out" as physical or emotional exhaustion, often the result of stress.
Hmmmmm. Do any of us have any stress in our lives?
She leaned on her elbows, chin resting on her hands. "You know several years ago I suffered burn out."
What, you?
I couldn't believe it. She's one of the most out spoken people I know. Always lets you know what's on her mind. She doesn't keep anything inside, just blurts it all out. How could she be stressed? By taking on too much?
Yup! That'd be it.
When she described the things that were happening to her several years ago, not eating, not sleeping, etc, I could relate.
I sat for a moment taking it all in. She was right.
I had to slow down. Haven't so many people been "suggesting" I slow down?
One of the devotional books I read every morning suggested we take a day for ourselves. Wow, that's an idea! When I thought about it, I tried to imagine what I would do for a day, something I would enjoy. I thought about it that day, and for several days after that.
I knew I was in trouble when the only thing I could think of, that was fun, involved work.
Does that mean I'm a "workaholic"? Probably. But not to worry. I'm going to spend the day doing fun things.
As soon as I finish editing, answering email,.....
What do you do for fun? How do you unwind?
Matthew 11:28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
I'm coming Lord!
As I was walking through the valley of the shadow this morning; I reached into my purse for something else when my hand brushed across a card a friend had given me a few days earlier. While standing there, I read her comforting words of encouragement again. As tears were about to brim over, the soft voice of Jesus reminded me of his words in Matthew 11:28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
I felt an instant peace, knowing He was right there with me, and willing to carry the load. A load I didn't need to carry at all.
When the caller I. D. display read, 'no name available', I pushed the "block" button on the phone. We don't need any more insurance, or lawn care, or anyone to come check for bugs, inside or out.
But the phone call reminded me of the times God sees my name on His "caller I.D."
I'm wondering if He says, "On no, not her again! I just talked to her this morning, listened to her prayers, and now here she is again with the same request. What's a Savior to do?"
I'm sure He shakes His head and wonders about me.
He's given me the greatest gift of all, His Grace, His Love, His Patience and understanding.
Okay Lord, the next time I call, I promise it will be a new request, right after thanking you for everything you have given me.
I had to walk through the shadows this morning before I could enjoy the sunshine.
Thank you Lord for everything.
