For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15 ESV)

This past week I was reading these verses. God speaks these words through Isaiah the prophet to a people who need to come back to him with all their hearts. He speaks as a Father to his children, as a God to his worshipers, as the supreme ruler to his subjects. Israel needed to come home. Think about it. Home is where you rest the best. Home is where you find the quietness that calms your soul. Home is where you trust that when you go to bed, all is well.

One of the things that has occurred to me in my times with God this past week is my need for rest. I honestly do not rest enough. I know this may come as no surprise to you, but it has honestly been a badge of honor to work myself tirelessly.  So one of the places I am taking a break from is this blog. After evaluating my schedule and how often I write this blog at home when I could be spending that time with my family, I’m taking a break.

In the meantime, continue to dig into God’s Word. I’m trusting this was never a substitute for your own time in the word anyway. (Isaiah 30 is a great place to start!)

6 Comments

  1. I love that you are a man of God willing to obey Him no matter what that means! Bless you as you rest!

    PS- if you ever want a wonderful place for you and Wendy to get away to- look up The Quiet Place in Baskerville, NC. I have been there 6 times and God speaks to me more there than anywhere!

    Stefanie Bonahm

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  2. Pastor Jerry,

    You certainly don’t need to explain anything to me about how busy you are. I don’t know how you maintain the pace that you do. The Grace family has been the recipient of your time and effort and your work has not gone unnoticed. However, a rest is certainly in order. As the old commercial goes, “You deserve a break today!”

    Perhaps going to one weekly message rather than daily, might be a possible suggestion, if you want to keep the “quill in the ink pot.” Maybe there is something of particular interest to you that comes up during the week that you feel the Spirit leading you to comment on?? Just a thought. Hate to see the blog go, but I completely understand the necessity……..something about “candle burning at both ends!”

    Thanks for all of your work on our behalf!!

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  3. Brother Jerry’
    I have enjoyed the blog so much. Watching you work, I know how it must affect your family life. Also realize from this message that you are following God. You are the first pastor that I have ever heard of stating & admitting that you “wear as a badge of honor. God bless you abundantly.
    Jesus had to take rest for the body.
    Blessings, Brenda
    Love your leadership.

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    1. Brenda,
      Thanks for your kind words. I am ever learning and growing. One of these days I’ll figure it out–that will be when I’m in heaven! It is a joy to be your pastor…and I love how God is at work in your grandchildren!
      jl

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