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Day Five
The First Step Toward Rest
Scripture: Psalm 94:19; James 4:8
If you are a parent, you know that your child can refuse your help at times. Especially as they get older, they will experiment with finding their own solution. This is an important part of development. But sometimes you get a stubborn one who refuses your help and isn’t making any progress on their own. You think, I can absolutely help you with that, but you aren’t letting me.
God probably thinks the same thing about us. He could just zap us with magic dust, but that’s not God’s heart. He is a person. He comes to you and me as the Holy Spirit, who is a person. He is a Father. Fathers don’t zap their children and make them do things, although, now that I think of it, that could be handy (all the parents said amen). No, rather than zapping us, He extends His hand, and we have the choice as to whether we will reach out and grab it.
To immerse yourself in this way to be still, become hyperaware of this present moment. Where are you right now? What sounds do you hear around you? What thoughts are running through your mind? Become extremely aware of your present state of mind and atmosphere.
Are you there? Okay, now I want you to soften your heart. Is it open?
Next, humble your heart.
Then, let go of control.
Now, ask God these questions and then patiently and peacefully wait for Him to give you a response, an impression, or a visual picture in your mind. (If you have paper or your computer nearby, write or type what you experience.)
Lord, how much do You love me?
Lord, are You here right now?
Lord, are You my refuge and my strength?
Lord, do You desire to be my support at all times, including times of trouble?
If you didn’t feel or see anything clearly, that’s okay. Go back and try again. Sometimes it takes a minute to get our radio tuned to God’s station. Be patient and compassionate with yourself. God promises us that as we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us (James 4:8).
Scripture
About this Plan
When you hear the word "rest", do you think of vacationing on a beach, curling up with a good book, or maybe napping? Those are all forms of rest, but this week we’re going to look at an entirely different dimension of rest—one that is available to you today, whatever your circumstances. If you are feeling fearful or overly busy, come find a place of rest right where you are.
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We would like to thank Baker Publishing for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/still-7-ways-to-find-calm-in-the-chaos-9780800737177
