A Time of Rest

Hi All,

I made a boo-boo on my last post...I said scared when I ment scarred.... sorry about that.....

I will be posting my Thanks Giving blog in a day or so....

Until then Have a very blessed week!!!

Love & Prayers,

Judy


Now for a timely message from Gentle Shepherd....



Reading: Leviticus 25:4-5



A TIME OF REST



It is important to realize there is a time for everything. There is a time of sowing, pruning and reaping. In our Christian life we will experience the pruning of our lives so we can produce greater fruit, but also we will know what it means to come into a place of rest.

When you consider pruning, you realize that it involves the testing of our faith. When we are being pruned, it can prove to be a trying process that results in maturity. God is always trying to cut away the foolishness to channel our gifts, talents and strength in such a way that quality fruit will come forth from our lives.

During pruning, we must trust God with what He is doing. It can be painful because certain aspects of our life can prove to be important to us. When He brings the sword down between us and the very things we have considered important, it can be painful. We have to trust that His ways are perfect at such times.

Pruning can also expose the aspects of life that are hindering us in our spiritual growth. Such characteristics are often attached to worldliness or our pride, and need to be cut back to the point where there is a separation from such influences and attachments. Wherever there is a separation, it can become a point of discipline for the Spirit of God to bring into order.

Once a plant is pruned back, it will produce greater fruit. It will accomplish what it was designed to do, and it will complete its cycle. In these Scriptures God designates that even that which produces fruit must be allowed to rest.

As Christians, we must occupy, be pruned and produce fruit. But, we also need to learn to come to a place of rest in our relationship with God.



Prayer: Lord, we thank You for Your grace. You are faithful to show us love and grace by pruning us. Amen.



©2008 Rayola Kelley, Gentle Shepherd Ministries. Permission is granted for
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