Silence and Centering
“Be still, and know that I am God!- Psalm 46:10
Confession:
In the days of the early church, believers affirmed their faith by saying, “Jesus is Lord.” We give lip-service to that same affirmation, but find it difficult to surrender control of our lives. Instead of honoring You as Lord, we act as the master of our own souls. Forgive us, and remind us that above all names, Your Name is holy, Your yoke is easy, Your burden is light. Call us forth to receive Your mercy and to walk in the joy of following You. We pray these things in the Name above all names: the Name of Jesus. Amen.
PAUSE FOR 2 MINUTES OF SILENCE
Reading & Devotional:
“Being cheerful keeps you healthy” (Proverbs 17:22 GNT).
To keep on loving well and doing the things God’s called you to do, keep your emotional tank full. How do you do that?
First, get some time alone. Even Jesus withdrew from crowds when he needed to recharge himself emotionally. Mark 6:31 says, “Then Jesus suggested, ‘Let’s get away from the crowds for a while and rest.’ For so many people were coming and going that they scarcely had time to eat” (TLB). People who are available all the time aren’t really fully available unless they set aside time to rest.
Then figure out what activities recreate energy in your life and recharge you. Each one of us has different things that recharge us because we’re all made differently. It may be hobbies, a sport, a craft, or games for you. Find out what recharges you emotionally, and then make time for it.
Jesus was the most intensive, ministry-oriented person who ever lived, yet the Bible says, “The Son of Man came, enjoying life” (Matthew 11:19 PHILLIPS). You weren’t made to be exhausted all the time. You were made to be more like Jesus.
Finally, develop the habit of laughter. The Bible says, “Being cheerful keeps you healthy” (Proverbs 17:22 GNT). Laughter increases the number of T-cells in your body, which raises your immunity and releases endorphins in your brain. Laughter is good for your health! It’s God’s gift to you that doesn’t just make you enjoy life more; it also helps you love others well.
Devotion By Rick Warren
Reflection Questions
- What signs in your life tell you that you need to be emotionally recharged?
- How does your favorite activity recharge you emotionally? How have you made time in your schedule for that activity?
- What would need to change about your schedule and your priorities for you to be able to have more time alone?
2 MINUTES OF SILENT PRAYER & REFLECTION. WAITING ON GOD (WHICH WORD OR PHRASE STANDS OUT TO YOU. WHAT MIGHT GOD BE SAYING TO YOU?)
The Our Father (slowly pray this)
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever, Amen.
