In the past I tended to be a task-oriented person. I had no regard for the people with whom I worked. Everything was solely about getting the job done, even when it came to working in ministry. Over the years in my walk with the Lord, He has softened me to become more people-focused. I thought I was doing pretty good until recently I was humbled by the revelation that I was task-oriented in my relationship with God. I was so busy doing ministry work, I had no time for the Lord.
Discovery of this character flaw came about when I found myself overwhelmed by mounting piles of work and responsibilities. With everything screaming for my attention, I was unable to concentrate on anything. Determined to complete the project I was working on, I tried to ignore a rising sense of panic by speeding up my pace when the following words came into my mind. “When my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” I brushed the words aside and kept on working. However, the words just kept repeating in my head. I admit I’m not the brightest bulb in the pack. Sometimes it takes me a while before I catch on. On the verge of breaking beneath the weight of my circumstances, I realized I was hearing scripture. I had an inkling it was God beckoning me, so I retreated to my quiet spot in my home.
It wasn’t until I settled into my quiet place, that I became keenly aware of the tension in my face, neck, and shoulders. As I sat still and began to cry out to God, I sensed His presence. As the tension in my body melted away and a calmness washed over me, I heard the words, “recharging station.” It was then I realized my spiritual battery was depleted. God was calling me to step away with Him. When I did, my focus shifted from all that was coming at me to God’s presence. In His presence I receive the relief, refreshment, and strength I sorely needed to carry on. I’ve learned God isn’t impressed by all the work I do for Him if it compromises my time with Him.
Psalm 61:2 says, “When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” In the Bible, a rock symbolizes strength. Christ is the Rock referred to in this passage of scripture. Only He can provide the strength needed when life overwhelms you.
When I returned to the task I had been working on, I was no longer operating in a frantic mode. God had replenished my spirit. I learned what needed my immediate attention, and how to prioritize everything else that was pressing on me that day.
Just as our mobile devices must be recharged to remain functioning, the Saints of God need a specific place to connect with God and tap into His strength and seek direction. After a busy day of ministry, Jesus said to His disciples in Mark 6:31, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest” (NIV).
We must never get so busy that we forsake spending time with the Lord. With the times we’re living in, we must have a designated “recharging station.” A recharging station is anywhere in your home you set aside to meet with God. Some people call it their “prayer closet.” Whatever you call it, retreat to this place on a daily basis AND whenever you feel consumed by your circumstances.
Some of you reading this post are worried about how you can possibly manage the myriad of responsibilities you’re dealing with. Now is an ideal time to escape to your recharging station, or establish one right now. Seek God’s presence and know that nothing can come into His presence and remain the same. Share your heart with the Lord. God is faithful to meet you in that place and recharge you with His strength and wisdom for any challenge you may be facing.
Until next time…Be blessed!
Rev. Cynthia Jackson, Rhema Inspirations
Rev. Cynthia Jackson is the administrator of the Rhema4U Blog and Innovations Ministries Director. Rev. Jackson is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was licensed and ordained under the tutelage of Bishop David G. Evans. She is an associate minister at Bethany Baptist Church located in Lindenwold, New Jersey. Rev. Jackson founded Innovations Ministries in 2001. Innovations Ministries provides dynamic and innovative programs and services for individuals and families dealing with various health-related issues. She is a gifted teacher, preacher, conference speaker and writer. God has anointed Rev. Jackson to be a spiritual midwife with a passion to empower others to birth God's vision for their lives. Rev. Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Management from Eastern University, a Master of Science Degree in Health Administration from Saint Joseph's University and a Master of Science Degree in Christian Counseling from Cairn University.
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