Do not let go of your God-sized dreams. Gather new courage, wisdom, and energy before running out of steam. God promises to resupply our spiritual energy when our tank runs low. If you are a parent or grandparent you probably need a couple days each month to catch your breath. Raising healthy, happy, thriving children is a full-time gig! Family life, happy life, even when terrific is often exhausting. What’s your plan for refueling?
In addition to taking short naps and short trips, finding places to retreat, here’s a key part of every good plan for renewal. Search out the Bible for a few good Jesus words.
“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.’ ” Matthew 11:28 NLT
Jesus promises to help whenever life leaves us weary. 2024 has provided many highlights at Journey. How are things in your life, so far? The first quarter of our calendar at Journey Church Cynthiana has included new guests arriving almost weekly. We’ve met new families and made new friends. Expectations continue to run high for what might be next in 2024, whatever God is planning for us.
Do you and your immediate family have a sense of anticipation? Are you expecting God to do big things in your life? It feels like God is doing big things in our world, everywhere. At Journey we are always trying to pray and plan for our best worthy story to tell others; we want it to always be about God! Knowing when to START something, STOP something, when to GO, and when to STOP requires careful strategy.
I found this verse today, also, with more of Jesus words. You may recognize this passage.
“But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you.” Luke 14:28-29 NLT
Jesus is telling us to dream big but never forget to plan well and count the cost. Start strong, finish well. Jesus words are good stuff for all of us in 2024. We need big dreams for ourselves, our children, and our world. We need a solid plan to help reboot our enthusiasm.
Just six Jesus words can help: Come to me. Count the cost.
