This is the final part of Time Out. In Parts 1 – 3 we discussed how life has changed, becoming more demanding and how it leaves people feeling vulnerable, exhausted, and negative. We also discussed why it is important to have time out and that it involves more than just taking a break. It means that God needs to be the centre of your time out. God asks us to be still and know that He is in control. He wants us to go into fasting and prayer about those things we need answers on.
Let us look at how love fits into the topic of TIME OUT. Colossians 3:14 says: “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” When we talk about love, it is clear, that God wants us to focus on love instead of any challenge that we are facing. We can combine 1 Corinthians 13 with Colossians 3:14. 1 Corinthians 13 on love, tells us that we need faith, hope, and love. Yes, we need all three but the greatest of these is love. So as part of time out, we need to make sure that we love, but remember with love comes sacrifice. This sacrifice could include your time, finances, and your own self by putting others first just like Jesus did when He died for us on the cross.
With peace, let us look at what Colossians 3:15 says: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Here we can connect Philippians 4:6 – 7 to Colossians 3:15. Philippians 4: 6 – 7 tells us not to be anxious about anything but in everything through prayer and petition and with thanksgiving, we must put our requests to God and then the peace of Christ which transcends all understanding will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Colossians 3:17 says: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” What a powerful scripture! God does not want us to do things for man, He wants us to do things for Him. So yes, even if you are busy and have a specific job where He has placed you, remember you are not doing it for that place alone, but for God. Therefore, in your TIME OUT, constantly reflect on who you are and why you are where you are. To get to these answers requires time out and time with God, to hear His voice.
Then there is worship. I think some people might see it just as singing but it is about praising and honouring God and you can do that in several ways. It can be singing, listening to worship music or through your actions by making declarations from His Word, being obedient to His Word, and through sharing and caring. All the previously mentioned forms part of worship.
So, in TIME OUT we must be still, go into fasting and prayer, execute love, rest in God’s peace, reflect and worship. All the above mentioned are important and when interlinked is a powerful tool to use in living everyday life to the full. Yes, it might not mean that life will be without stress, but to have and use the tools that God has given us, will result in us not being overwhelmed by that stress.
Love in Christ
Princess K