Stay a while...

One of my favourite memories is spending time alongside the Jamieson River, situated in the North-eastern part of Victoria. There are many day picnic spots both in the town and outside of town, where the only sounds are the wildlife and the river itself. Having these times of peace, soothes the soul and reminds me of God's grand design of creation.

Sadly, the distance is too far for me to go there as much as I would like, but there are new places that I have found, when God calls me to "Stay a while". It would be nice to stop and reflect to refresh ourselves more often, but demands pile up and we yield to them. The cost is high when we don't stay a while, as God asks us to, trust me I know.

As I am writing this, the body is slowly refreshing itself, because though I did slow down, I didn't stay still long enough. There are lots of things we cannot force, such as a recovery, a ministry, a dream, especially if it comes under God's approval and direction. When we surrender to God's timing, then things do happen.

Staying too long can cost us too, so how can we maintain a good balance of the two? Firstly, listening to God when He directs us. He won't come in trumpets and thunderclaps, but with a still, small voice. Secondly, taking heed of our body's warning when it feels stress and not waiting until it breaks down.

Finally, realising we are not perfect, only Jesus is and keeping our spirits in line with His gentle directions. Our motto is what we try to live by in Ephesians 4:23-24: .." to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" (NIV). Wholeness of self is key to Godly living.