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Respite For the Weary
All too often, we go about our days with our hearts closed up. We're all business. We're in a hurry. We're stressed. Pause for a moment to spend time with the Joy Giver? Not an option because there's just too much to do.
In my soon-to-be-released children's book Christmas Morning, a little girl delightfully opens one gift after the other. Each gift takes her on a wonder-filled adventure which is portrayed through the whimsical illustrations. The third gift, wrapped in vibrant paper, is one of my favorites. The little girl reaches in and pulls out a..."happy little music box."
When the little girl opens it, music like she has never heard before begins to play. It's so melodious and inviting, she can't help but rise up and dance all around her living room. She is filled to overflowing with JOY! This opened-up music box and the dancing little girl is meant to symbolize the joy that Jesus brings to all those who know him as Savior.
All too often, we go about our days with our hearts closed up. We're all business. We're in a hurry. We're stressed. Pause for a moment to spend time with the Joy Giver? Not an option because there's just too much to do.
But listen to what Jesus says in his word about joy:
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11
A joyful heart is good medicine... Proverbs 17:22
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:11
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music. Psalm 98:4
For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy. Psalm 63:7
I think one of God's greatest desires is to see his children worship him with a heart that's full to overflowing with joy. His joy is not merely a fun emotion. Nor is it based on circumstance; rather, it's rooted in knowing God and believing in his promises, no matter the circumstance. There is both depth and height to this fruit of the Spirit!
What song can you listen to today that rhythmically proclaims God's truths? Do you need to be reminded of his goodness? his love? his presence? his power? Pick a song, turn it on, and rise up! This choice song may be the very medicine you need!
Become the little girl in this story. Open up the vibrant music box. Get off the fast track, take some un-wasted time, and dance.
...For the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10
Wednesday
Picture: House (cornerstone to completion)
Scripture: Isaiah 28:16; Isaiah 54:11-14; 1 Corinthians 3:11-16; 1 Peter 2:4-5
Write any phrases from the selected Bible verses that speak to you:
Synonyms for the word “cornerstone” are: centerpiece, mainspring, core, heart. Cornerstone is the main stone that holds the two joining walls of the house together. From this secure place the house is built, brick by brick. Likewise, our spiritual cornerstone is Christ, in which all things stem from Him as we build our lives.
What are practical ways in which you can keep Jesus as the centerpiece of your daily life?
What are some hallmark “bricks” that have been laid in your life, recently or in the past, in
relation to decisions made based on God’s word?
Write a prayer using the above verses as a reference.
Monday
Picture: Body (the Head/the mind)
Scripture: Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:16-18; Colossians 2:8-10; Romans 12:1-2;
1 Corinthians 2:16
Write any phrases from the selected Bible verses that speak to you:
Today’s focus is both on the Head and the mind. First think about the knowledge and power of a any king or president over his country and people. He is the head of state, but it is the people’s choice to follow his rule or to rebel. Likewise, Christ has sovereign control over each of His children individually and also His church collectively; however He gives each on of us a free will to make decision to obey or disobey His love-based rulership. Jesus, the Head and the perfect Ruler implores us to transform our minds to think like Him, and as a result, behave like Him.
When you make decisions, both small and big, do you take it to the Lord your Ruler in prayer? Explain a time in which you did or did not take this route.
Does God’s word dictate the things you say and do? Give an example in which a particular Bible verse (or biblically-based thought) came to mind and you choose to obey/disobey.
Write a prayer using the above verses as a reference.
Thursday
Picture: Sheep (assembled in a flock)
Scripture: Micah 2:12; Luke 12:32; Psalm 100:1-3; Acts 2:1
Write any phrases from the selected Bible verses that speak to you:
Take a minute to think about a protective shepherd gathering his whole flock together. He counts each one, but also enjoys the whole. Likewise, our Shepherd loves each one of us individually, but He also loves to see His cherished people as a collective group. He is faithful in all His ways and His pasture is good.
Are you a part of a ministry or church in which you are being lead in His truth? How does this group of believers encourage you?
Is there someone who you could prayerfully consider inviting to join in with this current body of believers? Write their name here, and at God’s prompting, follow through with the invitation.
Write a prayer using the above verses as a reference.
Friday
Picture: Sheep (following the Shepherd)
Scripture: Psalm 78:52-54; John 10:1-18; 1 Peter 2:25
Write any phrases from the selected Bible verses that speak to you:
In your mind’s eye, see and hear a shepherd calling out to his sheep, and the sheep immediately responding to it. See the sheep willingly follow their protector and provider. What an example to us from these trusting sheep! May we take this picture to heart when thinking of our Good Shepherd, who lovingly gave His life for each one of His children.
How well do you know the voice of your Shepherd? Explain.
Do you consider the choice path of your Good Shepherd to be trustworthy? Keep in mind His sacrificial love. Explain.
Write a prayer using the above verses as a reference.
Wednesday
Picture: Body (hands/gifts to serve)
Scripture: Isaiah 58:6-11; Matthew 25:35-40; 1 Corinthians 12:11-20
Write any phrases from the selected Bible verses that speak to you:
Close your eyes and see someone serving in some way, whether it’s helping to build a building or volunteering at a nursing home or making a meal for a family in need. The focus today is using our many different gifts to be the “hands of Christ” in our service to the orphan, the widow, our neighbor, or anyone the Lord puts in our personal path. Quiet service might get overlooked by our culture, but it never gets overlooked by God. He is so pleased when we love one another through acts of mercy.
Can you recall a time when the body of Christ, whether it was one person or many, came to your side and served you in time of need? Explain.
Is there a specific people-group in which you feel God has called you to serve? What are ways in which you do so?
Thursday
Picture: Body (feet to walk)
Scripture: Acts 3:6-9: Ephesians 4:1-7; Colossians 1:9-12; Hebrews 12:1-3; Isaiah 52:7
Write any phrases from the selected Bible verses that speak to you:
Envision taking a long new and unfamiliar trail walk with a map in hand. The idea of course is stay on the trail and follow the directions to the final destination. Similarly, because of our faith in Christ, we “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). The challenge is to resist our old life of the flesh. Every day, He has a path for us to follow in which His word is our guide and His Spirit is our help. He promises to be with us every twist and turn.
What are some recent praises or challenges in your faith walk?
Do you have a favorite life verse(s) and/or song(s) that helps your faith walk? Write them here and then consider sharing them with a friend who may need encouragement in his/her own walk.
Write a prayer using the above verses as a reference.
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and glory and honor and blessing. - Rev. 5:12
Dear Lord,
Today remind us of your majesty so that we will then be in awe of your mercy. You, King of kings, marched to the cross. How can this be? Thank you for your willingness to pay the price for our sins. May we now live for you in humbled gratitude. In Jesus' Name, Amen.