By Pastor Jon
As I am sure you are aware, there is so much to do in life, and seemingly, so little time.
And as you age, everything somehow finds additional speed, which means life does not feel like it is slowing down, as some cliche. This is not a bad thing, as true retirement is for a future age.
Nevertheless, in the kerfuffle, it is too easy to get worn-out, and worn-through, which is more about the challenge of life in an increasingly self-absorbed culture, where we all get sucked-in. Just like a cold drink in the heat of the day; like a warm fire in the middle of a freezing winter; like extended deep sleep after a hectic period, it is worship that seeks the Creator’s glory, and not our own, which is like balm to our wearied soul.
If you know your stuff, all of life should be worship, and there is only one general subject stopping us. Hint: it has an “i” in the middle. Sin. The type of worship we entreat, thankfully, is not meant to be about us, which means this life in Christ is really not about us, but each day’s challenging translation is still real.
These words introduce a new angle on the RELOVUTIONARY church blog – QUOTATIOUSLY. I would like to describe this angle as words worth remembering, and you should be served, once-a-week, through this specific conduit. The plan is to then, work these, with additional personal application upon reflection.
To begin, in words already located on this site, which powerfully resonate into reality, I have decided these deserve their own spotlight. They are from Timothy Keller, and hit this sweet-spot of the Saviour, through the hectic intersection of real-time existence:
”Only through worship are we restored to vigo[u]r from the exhaustion and burnout of seeking our own glory.”
The longer I live the more I feel it. And I do mean, feel, as much more than some representatively squishy term. I think the reality of which Keller speaks, physically works through our frame, every day.
While our fleshy default is to look out for number one, true worship in the only warranted Source, is intended to take us in the opposite direction, which is why our lack is not only a commentary on our state of play, but locational for what is ultimately of real value. You could say, our intentional and specific periods of focused-worship somewhat act like medicine stops on life’s concourse; even refuelling, because we periodically run out of gas, because the worship is more on self.
Let me suggest, when you’re feeling physically worn-out, and before you get some sleep, which is also important, shift your focus from your needs, and to His Person, perfections, and glory. And a personal revival will happen within. It is simple as it will become realised.
Your soul will know the impact.
As your soul aches inside, understand, it is God’s stereo for you to positively respond!
And do so on every today!
For the Fame of His Name