Years ago my Pastor announced that they were going to be away for a few weeks for sabbatical …
Huh?
At the time I didn’t understand what that meant and frankly I didn’t even think it was my place to ask.
But just recently the topic of renewal came up and it reminded me how important it was for Christians to be continually renewed.
We all require renewal and there is a strong need for this discipline.
Many of us take to heart God’s word which tells us that “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” Matthew 9:37
This is good! We are to take seriously the work of God, ensuring that we follow God’s will and do his work. But sometimes we are so focused on the work that we forget that WE also need to take time out to come to him.
Your renewal should be in solitude and quiet.
In Jesus’ ministry he showed us the importance of solitude for renewal. Jesus time of solitude was spending time with God. “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke 5:16
As Christians we need that continuous renewal as well. “Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. Mark 6:31-32
When we seek that discipline of solitude we will not only seek Christ first in all things and have the knowledge to do HIS will, but it will also deepen and strengthen our relationship with Christ. And this discipline is through our prayer and worship when we seek Christ in a quiet place.
Thought: Jesus prepared for 30 years and taught for 3. How are you preparing yourself for the work ahead? You may not be able to go on a sabbatical but do you daily seek God in solitude so that he can refresh and renew you to go out and do HIS work?
Prayer: Abba Father, forgive us when we not only allow this world’s craziness to cut our time with you but also forgive us for not seeking you first. It is in our desire to seek you first that our discipline of solitude in renewal will increase. Guide and strengthen us, in Jesus name. Amen