Day 6- PEACE

For me, it's an upcoming move 5 hrs away, but for you it may be different. What is that?  I think each of us has something that tempts to rob us of peace at Christmas this year. Whether we've hit hard times, busy times, sad times, or changing times....the enemy would love nothing more than to steal some peace from us. Today we had to make another "quick trip" to Raleigh for some more things necessary before our upcoming move. I have been especially tired lately. I've had little sleep, lots to pack and do both where we live now and where we are going to live. During the drive early this morning I took some time to read the Word, and then with Christmas music piping and my husband at the wheel, I shut my eyes for a little nap. I didn't sleep long, but I awoke feeling so much better. It hit me how God designed our bodies for sleep. I mean, think about it. We could have been created to go, go, go all the time- day and night- without any need for refueling. But He didn't create us that way. He intricately designed our bodies to require sleep for both physical and emotional health. If we don't sleep, we eventually cannot function. Our lives become utter chaos when we don't get sufficient rest. Spiritually, we are the same way. It's so easy to go about the Christmas season without ever acknowledging a need for Jesus. To act like the world and go, go, go while never slowing down. It brings chaos, not peace. Christmas was never intended to be chaotic, my friends. Not even with church activities.

I thanked God for the little dozes I was able to get during the day today. (I took another small 15 minute nap while waiting for Sean to do some things at the bank.) It was so nice. I also thanked God for rest and peace that come from Him through the refueling of His Word and His Spirit. We are designed to rest and refuel-not just physically, but spiritually. Are you worn out? Then, take time to rest this year- in Him. Sleep in heavenly peace.

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me- watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."  Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)