A time for time out

Few people can survive for long while burning the candle at both ends.

God knows we need “speed bumps” in our lives to slow us down periodically allowing us to readjust our perspectives on things. Its sort of like when I go to the chiropractor. Every so often I go to see my doctor to get an adjustment because the normal routine of my life can, over time, knock things out of whack in my body. Getting a chiropractic adjustment can do wonders to restore my physical well being!

One day this week I was reading the very familiar scripture passage of Psalm 23. I memorized it as a kid during those Bible drill days and have heard hundreds of sermons and devotionals on it over my 63 years. I have read books about it and heard personal testimonies of its application. But this week I saw something new in it. (Actually, we know there is nothing new under the sun…but you know what I mean.)

I saw a progression for weary souls…and it fit my life’s journey over the past year.

REST –  “He makes me to lie down in green pastures.”
The Lord knew I needed to call “time out” for a while and He provided the perfect place for it.

REFLECTION – “He leads me beside still waters.”
I literally had a pond at which to gaze and think about the goodness of the Lord.

RESTORATION – “He restores my soul.”
Yep, He did.

RENEWAL – “He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”
God has called me to a new place for a new work with renewed spirit and energies.

Maybe you have seen this progression many times before…but for the first time it jumped out at me. Isn’t that just like God to take something I’ve read a million times and bring a fresh look to it?

There are people in the Bible who needed to call “time out” for a while; people like Moses, Elijah and even Jesus. Who am I to think that burning the candle at both ends won’t affect me?