Pastor (And You), How Are You Doing? – Part 3
For thus the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, has said, “In repentance and rest you will be saved, In quietness and trust is your strength.” But you were not willing, Isaiah 30:15
God said, ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.’ When you’re emotionally and spiritually drained by people’s expectations, it’s easy to grow numb to the full range of human emotions. And while it may seem like a relief to be free from negative emotions, the positive ones also become elusive because you don’t feel much of anything – good or bad. When that happens you’re likely to end up being directed by things like: 1) over-scheduling; 2) poor time management; 3) performance anxiety; 4) having few boundaries; 5) tolerating toxic relationships and bad habits; 6) unresolved grief or pain; 7) wrong goals. So what’s the answer? ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved.’Instead of pushing on and struggling to keep going, stop and talk to God about what’s happening in your life. Rather than feeling isolated and weighed down by the impossibility of your situation, include Him in the equation by praying:
Prayer
Lord, help me to keep my mind stayed on You. During this time of busyness and stress help me to reorder my priorities according to Your will, to think Your thoughts, and to let the mind of Christ have its rightful authority in my life. Your Word says You’ve ordained peace for me. Because You are my fortress and my deliverer, I will not allow myself to be troubled or afraid. Thank You for keeping my heart and mind at rest through Christ Jesus. Amen.