The week between Christmas and New Years is a great time to step back and take a breath as the crazy ride of the present year comes barrowling to a close before you have to face the pressures of a new year.
Most of us have a problem with the idea of unplugging though don’t we? You probably think you are simply too busy to take a break. What if I told you that God actually feels the principle of a short rest, or Sabbath, is actually exactly what you need?
In fact, over 3 millennia ago, He included the idea in His top ten list with Moses. Chew on this for a minute. The one who created you believes you need to periodically unplug for your own benefit.
Moses wrote it down like this, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).
Jesus added His commentary on the subject when some religious leaders were condemning the LORD’S disciples for picking some grain to eat on the Sabbath.
He said, “The Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2: 27).
Taking a short break is actually a gift from God to you, that is, if you use it correctly.
Taking time to unplug is not simply taking time off from work or your other responsibilities. If you look back to Exodus 20:8, the command is to keep this time holy. Just as your physical body needs physical rest, your soul and spirit need refreshing as well.
You are called to unplug with a PURPOSE!
You are called to unplug with a PURPOSE!
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Jesus modeled this principle for you when he was just twelve years old.
He, along with Joseph and Mary, had spent 7 days celebrating Passover in Jerusalem. The city was crowded and buzzing with activity and as the week came to a close, the crowds gathered in caravans for their protection as they started their journeys out of the city and back to their hometowns.
A whole day passes before Joseph and Mary’s heart was consumed with fear as they realized Jesus was not with the travelers.
After a three day search, they found Him in the Temple. He was sitting with the Priests listening, asking questions and sharing His insights.
Luke records how the crowds were impacted by Him.
“And all those who heard him were astounded at his understanding and his answers” (vs. 47).
When questioned on why He was there by His mother, Jesus responded by saying it was “necessary” for Him to be in His Father’s house (v. 49).
Why was it necessary for Jesus to unplug after the hustle and bustle of the Passover celebrations? Could it to listen…ask questions…and share His insight? I believe so.
Jesus unplugged with purpose and in doing so.
- He Increased in WISDOM
- He grew CLOSER to His Heavenly Father.
- He received CLARITY to the plan and purposes the Father had for Him.
When you go down in Luke’s account to verse 52, you find a remarkable statement.
Luke 2: 52, And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.
In essence, the traits that our Savior was known for as an adult, was being fine tuned as a twelve year old who took time away from the noise to surround Himself with Godly people and allow them to pour into Him. Consider this. Jesus allowed others to pour into Him, then He was able to pour Himself out to others.
In essence, Jesus modeled for us that…
Who you become in the future might well depend on how you unplug in the present.
Who you become in the future might well depend on how you unplug in the present.
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Now, here is the kicker – Only YOU can discipline yourself to unplug!
Only YOU can discipline yourself to unplug!
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Be intentional about it. Set aside some time to search out the heart of your Heavenly Father. Seek Him through prayer and His Word. Surround yourself with Godly people and allow them to pour into you. Then be ready for the LORD to use your life to pour into others.
Pursuing Truth with Chris Vaught 