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Rest A While

In this verse, Jesus was talking to His disciples. If Jesus and His men needed rest during busy ministry, then so do we. Interacting with people burns up physical and nervous energy. What many ministers don’t realize is that food does not replace nervous energy – only sleep does. By sleeping for fifteen minutes first, they would eat less afterward. This practice has helped me maintain my weight and my energy levels so I can continue intense ministry as counselor and chaplain at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Dr. Stephen Olford said people who don’t take time out are like archers of history who didn’t unstring their bows. The continually taut bowstring strained the bow’s wood fibers. Then when they came to draw the bow, it snapped irreparably. Thankfully, God can restore broken-down leaders, but that need not be if they take rest breaks.

Dr. Olford gave three guidelines for quality rest time: Rest – a good night’s sleep, but also catnaps if necessary. Recreation – a light keep-fit program, walking or swimming. Relaxation – music, reading, or taking family time. Dr. Olford would take Mondays off: Sunday was King’s day, but Monday was queen’s day – with his wife.

In Mark 6, the people found out where Jesus was. He was moved with compassion when He saw them, so He taught them about the kingdom of God, healed their sick, fed them, and sent them away with their needs met. Our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are custodians. Let’s keep them in good shape for fruitful years of service, meeting people’s needs, and bringing them to Jesus.

Written by DAVID SMETHURST