Godly Time Out
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” ~ Romans 5:3-5 (ESV)
Did you ever had a day that is unraveling before you eyes; you seem that there is nothing you can do to stop it? You can; take a Godly time out.
Last week I had just one of those days. Nothing went right; I felt that the whole world (okay my little piece of the world) was against me. I was frustrated what was going on around me. I scheduled a meeting with my new boss to set some records straight.
Fortunately for me, my boss did not have time right away; I had to wait a couple of hours. Thankfully so God put me in a time out. Instead of just pouting, I pulled my pink headphones over my head to listen to some music.
The first song that played was Josh Wilson’s song “Fall Apart”. Believe me, the words of the song were perfect in this particular moment to calm me down:
“Blessed are the ones who understand
We’ve got nothing to bring but empty hands
Nothing to hide and nothing to prove
Our heartbreak brings us back to You”
Paul’s words in Romans 5 came to mind as I continued with my work, listening to Christian music. Our days may not turn out the way we wish; we have to look past our circumstances, knowing that God is in control. As Paul writes: “…. and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us”.
After my two hour time out I was very calm; the situation was defused by His Holy Spirit to guide my words in the meeting. I didn’t even bring up my frustration, but asked for vacation in August.
Lord of Heaven and Earth. I thank You for Your gift of the Holy Spirit. You knew how to defuse the situation by delaying my meeting for two hours. Lord, thank You for Your unconditional love that gives me hope for tomorrow. Lord guide my words and actions every day. In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.
Photo & Content Copyright © Iris Nelson
I’m thankful the Lord defused the situation. I needed a Godly timeout yesterday as my circumstances made me feel pressed on all sides.
Wonderful reminder!
God bless you!
Woo Hoo. Vacation. Iris, this is really a great post. Such wisdom in waiting and letting God think through things.
Love you. Have a great time in August. Hugs.