I’ve been running pretty hard for the past 3-4 months. My week is usually made up of teaching 2-3 times, attending prayer and other church meetings, counseling, homeless ministry, and evangelism, plus whatever else may arise in overseeing a church. Like many busy Pastors, this usually means a work week in the 55-60 hour range. Fortunately, I love my job and wouldn't trade it for anything in the world, so those hours are not a burden but a delight. But to be honest, I've been feeling a bit tired. It's been a long time without a break, day offs have been rare.

Here is where I see the gracious hand of God in my life. Last Thursday I started to feel sick. I thought I'd be able to fight it off and made it through preaching on Easter. Sunday afternoon it walloped me. Monday I spent the whole day in bed. Today I slept in until 9:45! I’m usually up and starting my day by seven at the latest.

As I was making coffee this morning, I realized what God was doing. Even though the sickness is still lingering, I am feeling refreshed and raring to get back into the fight!

This scripture came to mind.

Psa 23:1-3 (NKJV) The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. (2) He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. (3) He restores (refreshes) my soul...

I would have never stopped on my own, so He stopped me and made me lie down for a few days. It wasn't a long break but it was enough. I can't wait to preach again tomorrow night.

He truly is a good shepherd and is committed to our well-being.