“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.”
(rf. Ps. 46:10-11 MEV)
Lori and I had the opportunity last week to return to a Pastors and Wives Retreat that we had previously attended twice before. In years past our time away proved to be immeasurably beneficial to both of us. This one was no different in outcome, though somewhat different in structure. Nonetheless we were very blessed by the time away, the new friends in ministry we met, the wonderful meals provided, and, especially, the quiet which fed our souls.
Everyone needs a quiet place where the noises of this world cease to be a distraction, allowing the proper background for us to truly hear the voice of God to our hearts. The quiet we experienced last week was essential in recharging our batteries for further ministry and to be able to sense God’s direction for our lives.
It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, the constant demands of work and family, the incessant call of “things to do”. This generation of American Christians is obviously struggling with these burdens as evidenced by their lack of faithfulness to Christ’s Church and an absence of desire to participate in the work and worship of God’s people. Many believers today would rather spend their Sundays doing anything other than being with fellow Christians. This is so sad!
Sunday morning worship is designed as a time to “get away” from the cares of this world, to recharge our batteries as we fellowship with one another and God’s Spirit. It is a “quiet place” where one can look into one’s own heart and pursue a stronger and deeper connection with Almighty God. Worship is specifically planned so that we are immersed in God’s Word to the end that we can be better living testimonies of God’s grace in Christ Jesus who lives within each of us.
As Lori and I had to make plans ahead of time to “get away” to WinShape for rest and restoration, so all of us as Jesus’ followers must plan to be with God’s people in worship each and every Sunday (barring sickness and Providential reasons, obviously). If we are faithful in the worship of our Lord and Savior, He will be responsive to our worship, inclining His ear to our prayers and speaking encouragement to our hearts through His Word and Spirit. Make the commitment going forward to setting God’s worship as a weekly priority for you and your family. He will bless your dedication to Him.
No comments:
Post a Comment