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"Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28 ESVUK)
The last year has been a productive time for me. I have managed to fulfil many of the tick boxes mentally listed, partly because I have had the family at home to embolden me to keep going, just knowing that they are around to call if I get injured. My ego gets a buzz of satisfaction in the completion of a job well done. I guess that it is like runners finishing their daily jog in a good time. I keep on running the race of doing.
However, spiritually, I have been coasting along, getting a bit minimal with God. I love Him, and yet, I take His blessing for granted. I call that faith, but maybe, it would be more honest to call it complacency or something nearer to presumption. My quick "hello" to Jesus does not count for much in His kingdom. I was happy, but the rot was setting in under my offhandedness.
Ironically, metaphorically, I have worn out too many pairs of shoes rushing in where angels have feared to tread, doing. I have taken my focus off Jesus. I have been sidetracked into seeing the task like a Goliath rather than a David. It is a deeply ingrained issue for me — being able to get through the day by "doing it", surviving.
There are times when I call upon the Lord when I am interceding, or about to start a large project. They are genuine times of prayer.
Intercession is great for being still before God. These times are like an oasis in the busyness of life. Lifting up others in prayer and knowing that I am heard is a joy and a blessing and a reward.
Jesus can forgive sin, but the Bible makes hard reading for those who are indifferent and complacent before God, because these require a change of heart. They require devotion.
When you can, be still; take a time out to soak in the Word, so that when you find yourself in the midst of the storm, you will stand and remain standing, because we are not alone.
Prayer: Lord, we are here for You today. In Jesus' name, speak. Amen.
Rod Marshall
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
Republished from PresbyCan with author's permission.
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