Monday, March 26, 2018

Reflection - The Solution to Worn-Out Lives - Weary and burdened

Source (book): "Finding rest for the soul", Chapter Four, Question 3, Page 75.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


What makes you weary and burdened?
PHOTO: What makes you weary and burdened?
Satan tempts us with promises of comfortable and indulgent living, instead of righteous living in the fear of God. Or he might throw setbacks at us, putting difficult obstacles in our path. That's why the Bible notes that "everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). And Jesus warned His disciples (and us), "In this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33).

Plotted against by opponents
The opponents grew increasingly vehement when being exposed of their hypocrisy and corruption. Anyone who wants to follow Christ will be tested and will suffer. Such sufferings, however, will only serve to strengthen the character and faith of the believer. Jesus reassures His disciples (and us) that they can take refuge in Him, "so that in me you may have peace" (
John 16:33).
We will face trouble in the world, but we will experience peace in Christ. It is thus possible to walk through suffering and trouble with a deep inner peace that comes from God. It is to this inner peace that Jesus invites us.

What makes me weary and burdened?
Our selfish nature
We have to live in this world, regardless how troublesome it may be. It could be one of the ways our Lord wants to educate us on what human cannot provide. Human, base on our limited understanding and resources will face trouble trying to create a comfortable and happy life. Our lifestyles become very self orientated, fighting for what we thought are best for ourselves. We may emphasise and empathise with the suffering of others, but primarily tempted to care for our own well-being. But unable to successfully fulfill our self-orientated goals make us weary and feeling burdened.

Lack of resources especially finance
Resources that we wanted are scare and we need to compete for it. We are unable to dislodge away from our primary instinctive nature and look after others before self. Relying solely on ourselves can make us weary and feel burdened. Sharing with others what we have sufficiently, create lesser stresses and discomforts for others. But learning to share what we thought is ours are making us weary and feeling burdened. Because we perceived that is not beneficial to us. And we can never have enough of the precious commodity.

Deteriorating health and increasing living costs
Deteriorating health is closely related to lack of finance. Once we do not have regular income and face with increasing expenditure on healthcare will deplete our saving quickly. Unless we have favourable health insurance we will find ourselves lacking in expenditure on other necessities. Our standard of living will be compromised and other undesirable factors can further add to our woes. For example the increasing transports and other necessities costs, and taxes. Sooner or later we will feel weary and burdened, wasting away.

What can you learn and receive from Jesus?
To Asaph it seemed as if the wicked and unrighteous people who had ignored God were getting away with their arrogance, while the righteous were suffering. All these feelings were resolved when Asaph entered into the sanctuary of the living God. He learnt to live in the peace-filled presence of God that the worship leader discovered how to live amid the pain, troubles, and injustice of the world. Jesus invites us to share Asaph's discovery.
Walking with Christ does not promise a carefree life, nor a life of comfort filled with worldly success and acclaim.  But we too can experience comfort and strength when we respond to Jesus' call.

Take some time today to listen to Him and to respond to His call.
Picture posted by Confident Girl Mentoring Program, Inc. on 14 December 2017
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXtyOhgRnaFkMUD2Wmk1JGWoLuBi5FvS5p86ck8wJtoyGf-nkWklEHZas7eu29-Z8Lj8gW0uYmPz5FF4Hh16NklGmz9NRTlg_ZSKB8UUXa3Z-tT0XV2u6HQjeufIv2BnNPWFJL1FiduRA/s1600/25348635_137569996881103_6918212960817130250_n-1.png
https://scontent-sit4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/25348635_137569996881103_6918212960817130250_n.jpg?oh=3b98f7f2214161d51d9eed3cd19638c7&oe=5B2B0412
https://www.facebook.com/pg/ConfidentGirlMentoring/photos/


What makes you weary and burdened? What can you learn and receive from Jesus? Take some time today to listen to Him and to respond to His call.

What makes you weary and burdened?

Overcoming Disturbance [1]
Satan tempts us with promises of comfortable and indulgent living, instead of righteous living in the fear of God
Many of us would like to live nice, quiet lives: don't rock the boat, don't offend anyone, don't get involved in other people's affairs, just take care of our own needs and live out our own cosy existence. But living like that turns us into spineless, amoral (even immoral) survivalists, interested only in protecting ourselves. Inner rot will set in and we will lose our humanity.



Satan tempts us with promises of comfortable and indulgent living, instead of righteous living in the fear of God.
PHOTO: Satan tempts us with promises of comfortable and indulgent living, instead of righteous living in the fear of God. Living out our own cosy existence may turns us into spineless, amoral (even immoral) survivalists, interested only in protecting ourselves. Inner rot will set in and we will lose our humanity.
Picture posted by Timothy Kurek - the temptation of jesus
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnl8ZlVmjDdOkop6FFxI7sl29cJmLkrHScd9a0KsqqnE1e-v2Eju0wRb08B6IAKMnSTxt4bMAk1i1c_ev9zRrF5Yp8oyFfZWZuJqSjY8mv-NJiueI1rk7bWZxP_o5riFgTI2LNiGb3Qqg/s1600/jesus-temptation-pictures.jpg
http://timothykurek.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/did-satan-really-tempt-jesus-in-the-desert-or-is-there-another-on-jesus-temptation-pictures.png
http://timothykurek.com/10-jesus-temptation-pictures/did-satan-really-tempt-jesus-in-the-desert-or-is-there-another-on-jesus-temptation-pictures/



Satan knows this and is constantly seeking to dissuade anyone who seriously wants to follow Jesus. He tempts us with promises of comfortable and indulgent living, instead of righteous living in the fear of God. Or he might throw setbacks at us, putting difficult obstacles in our path. That's why the Bible notes that "everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (
2 Timothy 3:12). And Jesus warned His disciples (and us), "In this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33).


The Bible notes that 'everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted' (2 Timothy 3:12).

PHOTO: The Bible notes that "everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). And Jesus warned His disciples (and us), "In this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33).
Picture saved by Clare E Butterfield to FYI
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwGRKmBlNcvwg5emlFheirJikyHrmtgCY3UuyqS61aWdbwzufOn55WD30TOC2iYzU0rOdy1u72HJI5R5czLYcbWOjfyZo2nQXw7wdXAWJ1Hw3V-N1FGN0UUMLoB1edOOFA-Nw7R7H0IU/s1600/681593a14f3e21e6643e7c08969653e7.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/68/15/93/681593a14f3e21e6643e7c08969653e7.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/519391769500497944/



Plotted against by opponents
The Lord himself encountered many opponents and challenges in His ministry. The religious leaders of the time hated Him for exposing their hypocrisy and corruption. They grew increasingly vehement (showing strong feeling; forceful, passionate, or intense) as they confronted Him with trick questions that would provoke politically incorrect answers. It was part of their plan to kill Him (Matthew 12:14).



Plotted against by opponents
PHOTO: Plotted against by opponents
The Lord himself encountered many opponents and challenges in His ministry. The religious leaders of the time hated Him for exposing their hypocrisy and corruption. It was part of their plan to kill Him (
Matthew 12:14).
Paintings by Alexander Bida (1813-1895) - The chief priests And the scribes plotting to arrest Jesus for execution!
Picture posted by bubee.net on 16 June 2012

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicgYAePoPZm66QV9_ytNEAGrU0PJEBouTXtHJZDnjIcflEsrhQkAZe_C8PMm8vLT495KafvmQLkrdqYciYIa4135N1U6uh9VTCJ0bgAsvKX-vrRkEypfPp10SYKEWmt06G8IrIrnlE0gI/s1600/Alexandre_Bida_-plot.jpg
http://bubee.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Alexandre_Bida_-plot.jpg
http://bubee.net/%e0%b8%9e%e0%b8%a3%e0%b8%b0%e0%b8%84%e0%b8%b3%e0%b8%9b%e0%b8%a3%e0%b8%b0%e0%b8%88%e0%b8%b3%e0%b8%a7%e0%b8%b1%e0%b8%99/16-%e0%b8%a1%e0%b8%b4%e0%b8%96%e0%b8%b8%e0%b8%99%e0%b8%b2%e0%b8%a2%e0%b8%99-12/



Anyone who wants to follow Christ will be tested and will suffer. Such sufferings, however, will only serve to strengthen the character and faith of the believer. God is able to use the efforts of Satan and the sinful world for His own ultimate purposes. Therefore, Jesus reassures His disciples that they can take refuge in Him, "so that in me you may have peace" (
John 16:33).


Jesus reassures His disciples that they can take refuge in Him
PHOTO: Jesus reassures His disciples that they can take refuge in Him
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (
John 16:33).
Picture posted by Tiffany Scott, hollylane.com on 19 March 2014

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPilDnu3we36J9WKBrDUC8mayBjKYjhkk_heI2CN6dHmBqV4ryZLXON3vDZmgXtgL_NE30WPuKkQOB0MohQM-B2LTFs_g117Lyi6r1E5fQxDgoOh3o3IfNK1D-AOyYlDNQJ9pF2QmRdQ/s1600/Holly-Lane-Christian-Jewelry_John16-33.jpg
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0930/7512/files/Holly-Lane-Christian-Jewelry_John16-33.jpg?7439502603708008785
https://hollylane.com/blogs/wallpapers/114059716-take-heart



We are called to live in two spheres: the world and Christ
We are called to live in two spheres: the world and Christ. We will face trouble in the world, but we will experience peace in Christ. It is thus possible to walk through suffering and trouble with a deep inner peace that comes from God. When we suffer, we will draw closer to Jesus and learn from Him. As Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard noted, we "are being educated for eternity". [17] It is to this inner peace that Jesus invites us.



We are called to live in two spheres: the world and Christ
PHOTO: We are called to live in two spheres: the world and Christ
We will face trouble in the world, but we will experience peace in Christ. It is to this inner peace that Jesus invites us.
Picture posted by Mark Buchanan on 19 July 2013 - Can We Trust the God of Genocide?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeHgqdV-EqexT9nZ2CNzPibzwSFeRE9VXCMgwE3bVVfM8HlOB5Ymhse5mF1b_ddqVVEB2mjVLe9-WsCgmiN22ytP308t-5-MzET0tZg_msMIHtFm26IY5fOClCRm5sX6PmdGLpvaoLSdU/s1600/28315.jpg
http://www.christianitytoday.com/images/28315.jpg
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2013/july-august/can-we-trust-god-of-genocide.html
http://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2016/07/reflection-christian-response-to.html



What makes me weary and burdened?
Our selfish nature
We have to live in this world, regardless how troublesome it may be. It could be one of the ways our Lord wants to educate us on what human cannot provide. Human, base on our limited understanding and resources will face trouble trying to create a comfortable and happy life. Our lifestyles may then become very self orientated, fighting for what we thought are best for ourselves. What happens to others is not really our prime concern. We may emphasise and empathise with the suffering of others, but primarily tempted to care for our own well-being. But unable to successfully fulfill our self-orientated goals make us weary and feeling burdened.



Our selfish nature
PHOTO: Our selfish nature
We have to live in this world, regardless how troublesome it may be. It could be one of the ways our Lord wants to educate us on what human cannot provide. We may emphasise and empathise with the suffering of others, but primarily tempted to care for our own well-being. We simply refuse to share what we thought is ours but we want to benefit from others. Unable to successfully fulfill our self-orientated goals make us weary and feeling burdened.
Picture posted by Creepypastas.com
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGA9LuwmmzOHDSSfop5Ti2GnLo7536dCJBcPwGUrIsDAoOJzdJMj8EY7G8uP3Lo2uLy4VNrJGOJ5tKzNuPDo-CdYh1M_6V0MTBU7ieB8EvCnt6NnLlwjuvfkZzdE2qF2mFL-tvOXLI50/s1600/aa.jpg
https://i2.wp.com/1.bp.blogspot.com/-bF46LNBmPrU/WSoq-SCChGI/AAAAAAABYLM/oJcIqosl-ioODJmXLrhUM_pwm8ctvdnRACEw/s1200/aa.jpg?w=688&ssl=1
https://heladooscuro.net/2017/munecas-diabolicas.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.sg/2016/04/reflection-attitudes-motives-and-conduct.html



Lack of resources especially finance
Resources that we wanted are scare and we need to compete for it. Access to resources and wealth are indicators of our living standard. We therefore are unable to dislodge away from our primary instinctive nature and look after others before self. God however wants to change our selfish attitudes, so that everybody can rely on one another for help when required. Relying solely on ourselves can make us weary and feel burdened. Giving to others what we have sufficiently, create lesser stresses and discomforts for others. These we have to learn, and learning to share what we thought is ours are making us weary and feeling burdened. Because we perceived that is not beneficial to us. And we can never have enough of the precious commodity.



Lack of resources especially finance
PHOTO: Lack of resources especially finance
Resources that we wanted are scare and we need to compete for it. We are unable to dislodge away from our primary instinctive nature and look after others before self. Relying solely on ourselves can make us weary and feel burdened. Sharing with others what we have sufficiently, create lesser stresses and discomforts for others. But learning to share what we thought is ours are making us weary and feeling burdened. Because we perceived that is not beneficial to us. And we can never have enough of the precious commodity.
Picture posted by Washington, DC on 03 September 2015 - It’s expensive to be poor
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9MbacpGuDJtHDLbnuOrIEQr_0hyphenhyphenbOaXmLtSa8-IuUCW4x8G27KsOYvLy4KiyfcF23GQ7QX5XkxFZrdb4EG49DewfsHETxWpKNlaUye_KbZncdAzzTGSbMnIpT-nAm0h3TuKCMIBTVpY/s1600/20150905_USD001_0.jpg
https://www.economist.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/640-width/images/print-edition/20150905_USD001_0.jpg
https://www.economist.com/news/united-states/21663262-why-low-income-americans-often-have-pay-more-its-expensive-be-poor



Deteriorating health and increasing living costs
Deteriorating health is closely related to lack of finance. Once we do not have regular income and face with increasing expenditure on healthcare will deplete our saving quickly. Unless we have favourable health insurance we will find ourselves lacking in expenditure on other necessities. Our standard of living will be compromised and other undesirable factors can further add to our woes. For example the increasing transports and other necessities costs, and taxes. Sooner or later we will feel weary and burdened, wasting away.



Deteriorating health and increasing living costs
PHOTO: Deteriorating health and increasing living costs
Deteriorating health is closely related to lack of finance. Once we do not have regular income and face with increasing expenditure on healthcare will deplete our saving quickly. Unless we have favourable health insurance we will find ourselves lacking in expenditure on other necessities. Our standard of living will be compromised and other undesirable factors can further add to our woes. For example the increasing transports and other necessities costs, and taxes. Sooner or later we will feel weary and burdened, wasting away.
Picture posted by Ashleigh Cartwright, HOUSE OF SOLO on 14 January 2018
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQJnfGtxzR7-RT72TUwa18SkGGWR_6mLCiFStbKRKZV6ehj6ihg0kxhjfulwwVTTkXb9Np5Oy8f7PkBB6_dc3FjaHSBIDD4MGe6urK9njci3nn0E32PkbT3UByh082wWBDiFAGkP_7J0E/s1600/Mental-health.jpg
http://www.houseofsolo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Mental-health.jpg
http://www.houseofsolo.co.uk/social-media-mental-health/



What can you learn and receive from Jesus?
Lesson from a Worship Leader: A Practical Example [1]
Wicked and unrighteous people were getting away with their arrogance, while the righteous were suffering
The man who wrote Psalm 73 was a servant in the temple whose job was to lead people in the worship of God. But privately, Asaph often wondered whether it was all worth it. He confessed that he envied the arrogant for their prosperity, and was disturbed by their happy lives. "They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong," he observed. "They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills" (Psalm 73:4-5).

It seemed as if the wicked and unrighteous people who had ignored God were getting away with their arrogance, while the righteous were suffering. Didn't God care? Was it really worthwhile to remain faithful to Him? Asaph complained: "Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure and have washed my hands in innocence. All day long I have been afflicted, and every morning brings new punishments" (Psalm 73:13-14, emphasis added). Nursing his doubts and frustrations, the worship leader tried to bear the troubles he was facing bravely, but could not help feeling grieved and embittered (Psalm 73:21).



Asaph the Musician-Prophet
PHOTO: Asaph the Musician-Prophet
Nursing his doubts and frustrations, the worship leader tried to bear the troubles he was facing bravely, but could not help feeling grieved and embittered (Psalm 73:21).
Picture posted by John R. Houk on 16 July 2012
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPrJapNAWZ2ZiqbtoRCxTIlWGoszcEpopBuUNcwb92E-_HBMYTD91fgQSiAWSgfMfpo8yRwLrG7dHnXOqXoZq1UXJGQUSlxNiwHOKLCAt1C6r8NST37DJ7XHZfvFVDDAkqEfmbQ749I58/s1600/scribe.jpg
https://oneway2day.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/scribe.jpg
https://oneway2day.wordpress.com/2012/07/16/asaph-the-musician-prophet/



Doubts and frustrations are resolve when we enter the sanctuary of God
All these feelings were resolved when Asaph entered into the presence of the living God: "When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their [the wicked people's] final destiny" (Psalm 73:16-17, emphasis added). It was only when he learnt to live in the peace-filled presence of God, that the worship leader discovered how to live amid the pain, troubles, and injustice of the world. He concluded, "It is good to be near God" (Psalm 73:28).



Doubts and frustrations are resolve when we enter the sanctuary of God
PHOTO: Doubts and frustrations are resolve when we enter the sanctuary of God
 It was only when Asaph learnt to live in the peace-filled presence of God, that the worship leader discovered how to live amid the pain, troubles, and injustice of the world. He concluded, "It is good to be near God" (Psalm 73:28
).
Picture posted by ccouch on 04 May 2016
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbU0uo6vLoX_hZzTwEmVN4JTuxuGZ6rl1Rlk28_sMjg_uXU4HHxS0cJsbrckp3makHWGaYvCSN0ByQTQlsheeDz6ls-7-9Hw0Go7_7xMBdBtgydz5Uaad8cKFLHLCsUulhHOG4-Umar6M/s1600/dreamstime_m_35729437.jpg
http://mylifeinheals.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/dreamstime_m_35729437.jpg
http://mylifeinheals.com/one-year-ago-may-4th-2015/



Jesus invites us to share Asaph's discovery.
Jesus invites us to share Asaph's discovery. We may have grown weary of all the troubles we face in our lives. But Jesus understands and calls us to come close to Him. When we do so, we will face our challenges with Him, and His presence will bring sweet relief, even in the midst of the fiercest battle. Then we can say, as Asaph did, "God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever" (Psalm 73:26).



Jesus invites us to share Asaph's discovery
PHOTO: Jesus invites us to share Asaph's discovery
We may have grown weary of all the troubles we face in our lives. Jesus understands and calls us to come close to Him. When we do so, we will face our challenges with Him, and His presence will bring sweet relief, even in the midst of the fiercest battle.
Picture posted by Joyceph on 18 August 2017
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrGRYaDfDD0nzSfYnKEoOvM3r_6PcOrsXbAYRwgMcO8bMRr4CI4IWO7PDD8Ol_r2qKqyCjKPQS3lJ1Cxo0z4MwEwv-6Xb0peS8Sd11pI2d9FKrDVZ4iaJUJxTKsfo_aDsfne81WFn5Tjo/s1600/0feccd_95d8e1ce1dfc4187931ad4ce92e6b3d1%257Emv2.jpg
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0feccd_95d8e1ce1dfc4187931ad4ce92e6b3d1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_614,h_780,al_c,lg_1,q_85/0feccd_95d8e1ce1dfc4187931ad4ce92e6b3d1~mv2.jpg
http://www.atticofjoseph.org/single-post/wod20170819



Walking with Christ does not promise a carefree life, nor a life of comfort filled with worldly success and acclaim
Walking with Christ does not promise a carefree life, nor a life of comfort filled with worldly success and acclaim. As I write this, I read about the death of Robertson McQuilkin, a former missionary and president of Columbia Bible College (now Columbia International University) in South Carolina, where I once taught a summer course.

Under Roberston's leadership, the college's enrolment doubled and it grew in other areas as well. But tragedy struck when his wife Muriel developed Alzheimer's disease at a relatively young age. She not only needed constant care, but was terrified of being alone. It was then that Robertson decided to resign, even though he had eight more years before retirement. Instead of putting his wife in an institution, which many people had suggested, Robertson decided to care for her at home. He said, "This was no grim duty to which I stoically resigned, however. It was only fair. She had, after all cared for me for almost four decades with marvellous devotion; now it was my turn. And such a partner she was! If I took care of her for 40 years, I would never be out of her debt."



Walking with Christ does not promise a carefree life, nor a life of comfort filled with worldly success and acclaim
PHOTO: Walking with Christ does not promise a carefree life, nor a life of comfort filled with worldly success and acclaim
There may be a storm coming that fills us with fear and trepidation, but make an effort to have faith in Jesus, follow His teachings, and have peace, knowing that He has overcome the world.
Picture posted by Topher from Washington Church of Christ on Thursday, 30 July 2015 at 7:19 AM
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsMbBEN7P4GBjqqeEf8X_1O1zYgEeMRKCIPtAB-wuWZ2Lw56Zdndlrl04LQtRs2r1dJwjC2yiftO0DozWcdFlmpOHX9HfUwZtVVaFe9SYWheVb55WCqnjdzYk1KIGmxUYbM4PnCnmhT4/s1600/p.jpg
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgNu0gZkMBlais9DwW30mgo6t1V1FzG02e3gzeZHZwbgtXVWrwYDi22Xfo7EcbuFqmKxt38Cn93NFd2lZtwCTt-4cn1egZt5fklIAt1K_VSPizqgju05OZg7JQINCaxZYmNn__3I-_3WdMA4pGVt5ug-C8DwomPGqc9JDw522Ukr6OglAn467sFvcIR1Q=
http://www.topherwiles.com/2015/07/a-storm-is-coming-message-minute.html



We can experience comfort and strength when we respond to Jesus' call
Just as Robertson was struggling to care for his wife, he was struck another blow: his eldest son Robert died in a diving accident. He spoke of the painful wounds he received in life as he faithfully served the Lord - "my dearest slipping from me, my eldest son snatched away in a tragic accident, my life's work abandoned at its peak". Yet, amid all this pain, Robertson found abiding joy in his life. His secret was that he lived close to Jesus: every blow he received in life was shared with his Lord (Philippians 3:10), from whom he received profound comfort and strength.

We too can experience this comfort and strength when we respond to Jesus' call.



We can experience comfort and strength when we respond to Jesus' call
PHOTO: We can experience comfort and strength when we respond to Jesus' call
Amid all the pain, we can find abiding joy in his life. The secret is to live close to Jesus: every blow we receive in life is shared with our Lord who has overcome the world.
Picture posted by injarsofclay on 04 September 2016 at 23:07:00
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ovvmCtZLEb_cfGj0rwPsgq313WZWjngXIk-_775dKj-YxsSpMRdmSCLoeZGGnpH4siVvJNMK15iSnopfAqQF3WCVbSoAfyh99I0iOL2-nDEWkzGmCuRZQLBQCtey-S8CBgWxaCwr3n4/s1600/105842_original.png
https://ic.pics.livejournal.com/injarsofclay/12891341/105842/105842_original.png
https://injarsofclay.livejournal.com/252899.html



Take some time today to listen to Him and to respond to His call.
How Do I Know I'm Hearing from God?
 A common concern when people think they heard from God, is whether the message is just from their own thoughts. If you’re wrestling with this question, consider these things:


Are you likely to think this type of thought? If it’s more freeing and kind, or more insightful than something you usually come up with, it could be God. Ask yourself if it reflects the nature of God. Be aware of how it makes you feel - peaceful and loved, or confused and condemned? If it’s an instruction, see if the thought continues - does it stick with you through the next several days and months? [2]
 

Message is from God?
PHOTO: Message is from God?
 If it’s more freeing and kind, or more insightful than something you usually come up with, it could be God.
"The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." - Psalm 145:18
Picture from depositphotos.com on 24 August 2015 at 10:01 - Bountifulness benefits
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sbAwfJgRRgh_9xeyBvv1M4yVl2PANIuFnDSQBLPuTlfXJPtrIok4zdYd5QifNy-EHPjUFAJLZS56p_3d_8vj75Y59E17XFWI14428CiUXe5XTNhxKXJBB9W9TR-G6Uwj9_M6qgTnaHM/s1600/fe43f55dac20fbf97f-72272671.jpg
http://g2.nh.ee/images/pix/900x600/lX7jRJmMnDY/fe43f55dac20fbf97f-72272671.jpg
http://alkeemia.delfi.ee/suhted/rasedusjalaps/igavlemine-tuleb-lapsele-kasuks?id=69699883



Study the Word [3]
The Bible is called “God’s Word” for a reason—it is the primary way God speaks to us. It is also the way we learn about God’s character and His dealings with people throughout history. All Scripture is “breathed out by God” and is the guide for a righteous life (2 Timothy 3:16). While we speak to God in prayer, He speaks to us through His Word. As we read, we must consider the words of the Bible to be the very words of God.

Any thought, desire, inclination, or urge we may have must be brought to the Word of God for comparison and approval. Let the Bible be the judge of every thought. “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). No matter how urgent the urge, if it goes against what Scripture says, then it is not of God and must be rejected.



Study the Word
PHOTO: Study the Word
While we speak to God in prayer, He speaks to us through His Word. Any thought, desire, inclination, or urge we may have must be brought to the Word of God for comparison and approval. Let the Bible be the judge of every thought.
Picture posted by The Lenten Positive Acts
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWrf5meUtRPu5-RFRpFFffUYrybfBeDgqbGKWAbYJRGtkoEf4kZYL8-W9ehWyF4IVl2-Hq_p5C871Mpi71iTVYcBKayhCQNXVkl7qR4TjgZq9V-VZjFz6ShHUGMA9UKmHQt0bjjb2C-A/s1600/walk_to_the_cross_Dollarphotoclub_62535950.jpg
http://lentenpositiveacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/walk_to_the_cross_Dollarphotoclub_62535950.jpg
http://lentenpositiveacts.com/the-challenge/



Follow the Holy Spirit’s Leading [3]
No matter what decisions we’re making day to day, we can’t go wrong when we exhibit love, joy, peace, etc., to the glory of God. Allow the Holy Spirit to work in us. The Holy Spirit is God - a divine Being with a mind, emotions, and will. He is always with us (Psalm 139:7-8). His purposes include interceding for us (Romans 8:26-27) and giving gifts to benefit the church (1 Corinthians 12:7-11).



Follow the Holy Spirit’s Leading
PHOTO: Follow the Holy Spirit’s Leading
No matter what decisions we’re making day to day, we can’t go wrong when we exhibit love, joy, peace, etc., to the glory of God. Allow the Holy Spirit to work in us.
Picture posted by SlidePlayer
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbd5i3cMdofLL-HWHmiQ1AWpMg0MZE7voheKNahjauJhKC3hz5TsOuRPKtE4VC2gXVuAS5FpKs6izo2Lv7-qVEMWlKEIYW5WKR5FTZOa-BYm5D9bQ0I1ITQiKwdBK7jBvKy1ESRVUoOLE/s1600/slide_12.jpg
http://images.slideplayer.com/32/10070542/slides/slide_12.jpg
http://slideplayer.com/slide/10070542/



Dear Lord, anyone who wants to follow Christ willbe tested and will suffer. Help us to strengthen our character and faith through such sufferings. In this world we will have troubles. We pray for your refuge so that we can walk through suffering with a deep inner peace that comes from you. Please help us to enter your sanctuary so that our doubts and frustrations are resolved.<br>We accept your invitation to listen and go to you, and experience the comfort and strength amid the pain, troubles, and injustice of the world. We are weary and burdened, and we want to discover the secret of living close to Jesus so that we can find true rest for our souls. Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!
PHOTO: "Dear Lord, anyone who wants to follow Christ will be tested and will suffer. Help us to strengthen our character and faith through such sufferings. In this world we will have troubles. We pray for your refuge so that we can walk through suffering with a deep inner peace that comes from you. Please help us to enter your sanctuary so that our doubts and frustrations are resolved.

We accept your invitation to listen and go to you, and experience the comfort and strength amid the pain, troubles, and injustice of the world. We are weary and burdened, and we want to discover the secret of living close to Jesus so that we can find true rest for our souls. Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!
"
Picture posted by C. J. on 10 June 2017
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaj47vGqjlhmUVhAAgzprKSG2KLdAxqSp8sV6NbUfGaciIba_ZqKAPLRvDdvOR80w6HmPzsT08pbZwmB-ECDKKfEbtXe9x4vQp6OokYq-8Elbu0qq1Dz5ZAA6vSfXeomx0zWaUNvI1oms/s1600/wp-1497106707236.png
https://iamnotashamedofthegospelofchrist.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/wp-1497106707236.png
https://iamnotashamedofthegospelofchrist.com/2017/06/10/are-you-tired-and-weary-your-not-alone/

 
Reflection - The Solution to Worn-Out Lives - Weary and burdened
Fron Source (book): "Finding rest for the soul", Chapter Four, Question 3, Page 75.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012





Reference
[1] From "Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, Copyright © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-1-62707-709-5, Part II: Take My Yoke, Chapter Four "Christ's Yoke: The Solution to Worn-Out Lives", Page 71-75.

[2] Ryan Duncan, How Do I Know I'm Hearing from God?, posted on 29 September 2015, https://www.crosswalk.com/blogs/christian-trends/how-do-i-know-i-m-hearing-from-god.html

[3] Got Questions Ministries, How can I know if I am hearing God, hearing Satan, or hearing my own houghts?, https://www.gotquestions.org/hearing-God.html

[17] Soren Kierkegaard, Provocations, 164.


New International Version (NIV), Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+12%3A7-11&version=NIV

2 Timothy 3:12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+3%3A12&version=NIV

2 Timothy 3:16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+3%3A16&version=NIV

Hebrews 4:12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+4%3A12&version=NIV

John 16:33 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+16%3A33&version=NIV

Matthew 11:28-29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-29&version=NIV

Matthew 12:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+++12%3A14&version=NIV

Philippians 3:10 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+3%3A10&version=NIV

Psalm 73 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+73&version=NIV

Psalm 73:4-5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+73%3A4-5&version=NIV

Psalm 73:13-14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+73%3A13-14&version=NIV

Psalm 73:16-17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+73%3A16-17&version=NIV

Psalm 73:21 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+73%3A21&version=NIV

Psalm 73:26 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+73%3A26&version=NIV

Psalm 73:28 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+73%3A28&version=NIV

Psalm 139:7-8 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+139%3A7-8&version=NIV

Psalm 145:18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+145%3A18&version=NIV

Romans 8:26-27 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A26-27&version=NIV