Perfect Timing

A wonderful devotion could not have been more perfectly timed. This morning, a familiar passage from Isaiah was shared,

"He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; He offers strength to the weak...those who wait on the Lord will find new strength."

Isaiah 40:29, 31

This passage came along with the gentle reminder that we are not defined by our work, that God does not determine our value by what (or how much) we do. God clearly values relationships - so much so that He gave His own Son, sacrificed His life, in order for us to have relationship with Him.

Being busy builds walls. There are important things to do in life, yes, but the atmosphere that is created in constant busyness is not one that is welcoming to relationship, no matter how much we care about others. Instead, the silent message is sent that there is no time for connection, that work is more valuable. Imperfect human effort can never be enough in light of a perfect and holy God, yet we often believe otherwise.

"I want you to be merciful; I don't want your sacrifices. I want you to know God; that's more important than burnt offerings." Hosea 6:6

All He wants is our heart.

From a heart surrendered comes great love for God and others, and yes, hands to serve, to do the work, as well.

It is all too easy to get it backwards, to love God but then get sucked into the busyness of life, of service, of ministry, and end up squeezing Him and others out of the picture.

He longs for us to 'wait on' Him so that He can give 'new strength' - He desires that we 'come' to Him so that He can give 'rest.' This is what relationships do! Spending time, free and enjoyable time, with those we love brings strength and rest, it revives us. Those connections are frequent cravings of mine because of the refreshing they provide.

God continues to gently remind that He longs for the same - for quiet time of connection with Him so that He can pour out even greater blessing and preparation for our purposes.

This message is one that is continually heard by these ears, by this heart, and yet pushed away just as often. Thoughts are forever backwards, being convinced that there just isn't time to 'wait on the Lord' right now, that rest is found in the comfort of my bed instead of the truth of His Word. While there is great love for the Truth, there is not always obedience.

My greatest struggle confessed.

Longing to let go, to truly experience what God says He has for me.

His peace has been experienced beyond all understanding, His unspeakable joy sensed deep within. Now desiring this rest, this renewal. Yearning to find it here in my own home, to stop believing that it can only be found in a place of retreat. Make my home a retreat, Lord. Help me walk away from distraction, from busyness, and find You there - here.

206. Perfect timing.

207. A friend's trust.

208. Random, made-up songs sung softly in the backseat, unaware of Mom's listening ears.

209. Pursuit of relationship.

210. A husband's love for our home and family.

211. Leisurely walks with no schedule to keep.

212. Perfect evening light for picture-taking.

213. The sweet smell of lilac bushes in neighboring yards.

214. Children who beg for fresh fruit to snack on.

215. Time to sit and soak in the Truth.