September 19th, 2024
by Pastor James A. Riggs
by Pastor James A. Riggs
Midweek Encouragement:
Hello Church Family,
As we transition into the new school year, many of us are juggling the demands of work, family, and the added responsibilities of school routines. This time of year, can bring a unique set of challenges, often leaving us feeling tired and overwhelmed. It's easy to get caught up in the busyness and neglect our own need for rest and spiritual nourishment.
In the midst of this hectic season, let’s remember the importance of balancing our responsibilities with intentional rest and worship. Jesus invites us in Matthew 11:28-30, saying, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." This promise is a reminder that true rest is found in Him, even amidst the busiest times.
Take a moment today to breathe deeply, pray, and seek God’s wisdom for managing your time. Ask Him to help you create a rhythm that allows for work, rest, and worship, ensuring that you and your family can thrive during the busyness.
Midweek Devotion:
Scripture Reading: Exodus 20:8-11 (NIV) "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work... Therefore, the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy."
Reflection: As the school year begins, it’s crucial to remember the significance of the Sabbath in your life. Are you setting aside regular time for rest and worship, as God commands? The Sabbath is not just a day off but a sacred time to reconnect with God, recharge our spirits, and refresh our minds and bodies.
Reflect on how you can make the Sabbath a meaningful part of your weekly routine, even amidst of weekly jobs or the back-to-school hustle.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of rest and the command to observe the Sabbath. In this busy season of starting a new school year, help me to prioritize this sacred time. Teach me to find true rest in You and to balance my work, rest, and worship in a way that honors You. Renew my mind, body, and spirit as I seek Your presence. Amen.
Challenge for the Week:
1. Schedule a Sabbath: Look at your calendar and set aside a specific day or time each week for rest and worship. Protect this time as sacred and non-negotiable, even during busy school weeks.
2. Engage in Restful Activities: Choose one activity that rejuvenates you, such as taking a walk in nature, reading a book, or spending time in prayer and meditation. Commit to incorporating this into your week.
3. Reflect and Adjust: At the end of the week, take a few moments to reflect on how observing a Sabbath and engaging in restful activities impacted your well-being amidst the busy rush. Adjust your schedule as needed to ensure you continue to prioritize rest and worship.
By taking these steps, you’ll find greater peace, balance, and spiritual renewal, aligning your life with God’s design for rest and worship, even in the busiest seasons.
Blessings, In God’s Grip Pastor James Riggs
Hello Church Family,
As we transition into the new school year, many of us are juggling the demands of work, family, and the added responsibilities of school routines. This time of year, can bring a unique set of challenges, often leaving us feeling tired and overwhelmed. It's easy to get caught up in the busyness and neglect our own need for rest and spiritual nourishment.
In the midst of this hectic season, let’s remember the importance of balancing our responsibilities with intentional rest and worship. Jesus invites us in Matthew 11:28-30, saying, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." This promise is a reminder that true rest is found in Him, even amidst the busiest times.
Take a moment today to breathe deeply, pray, and seek God’s wisdom for managing your time. Ask Him to help you create a rhythm that allows for work, rest, and worship, ensuring that you and your family can thrive during the busyness.
Midweek Devotion:
Scripture Reading: Exodus 20:8-11 (NIV) "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work... Therefore, the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy."
Reflection: As the school year begins, it’s crucial to remember the significance of the Sabbath in your life. Are you setting aside regular time for rest and worship, as God commands? The Sabbath is not just a day off but a sacred time to reconnect with God, recharge our spirits, and refresh our minds and bodies.
Reflect on how you can make the Sabbath a meaningful part of your weekly routine, even amidst of weekly jobs or the back-to-school hustle.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of rest and the command to observe the Sabbath. In this busy season of starting a new school year, help me to prioritize this sacred time. Teach me to find true rest in You and to balance my work, rest, and worship in a way that honors You. Renew my mind, body, and spirit as I seek Your presence. Amen.
Challenge for the Week:
1. Schedule a Sabbath: Look at your calendar and set aside a specific day or time each week for rest and worship. Protect this time as sacred and non-negotiable, even during busy school weeks.
2. Engage in Restful Activities: Choose one activity that rejuvenates you, such as taking a walk in nature, reading a book, or spending time in prayer and meditation. Commit to incorporating this into your week.
3. Reflect and Adjust: At the end of the week, take a few moments to reflect on how observing a Sabbath and engaging in restful activities impacted your well-being amidst the busy rush. Adjust your schedule as needed to ensure you continue to prioritize rest and worship.
By taking these steps, you’ll find greater peace, balance, and spiritual renewal, aligning your life with God’s design for rest and worship, even in the busiest seasons.
Blessings, In God’s Grip Pastor James Riggs
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