I love Facebook!
It's where I get to keep up on the lives of my friends-most of whom live in other states. I'm encouraged by various groups, Scriptures posted, and inspirational thoughts shared. I get to share the funny things my kids say, see those memories from years ago and connect with others. But you know, sometimes the barrage of so much information coming at you throughout the day can become overwhelming. Sometimes I can be an all or nothing kind of girl. I struggle with moderation and spend too much time being "inspired" and encouraging others at the expense of other things---important things.
I've struggled in the past with fasting. Giving up something for the sole purpose of seeking God's guidance and drawing close to Him.
Our society has become so social media focused that taking a break from it seems impossible. But in the last year, I've released some of the things that confine me to a time schedule that seemingly prohibited a break for longer than 24 hours. Yet, I haven't really allowed myself to take a step back.
A little less than 48 hours ago, I posted that I was taking a Facebook break for a few days. Things in our little world need to be processed, prayed about and that can only occur when we do what Jesus did--withdraw and pray. Oh, how many times have I not followed His example. Jesus felt the crowds pressing in around him and at times He went off alone to recharge and pray. How many things in my life would be different if I would do what Jesus did---withdraw to pray and seek His will be done in all parts of my life.
But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.
Luke 5:16
We find proof that the word of God is living and breathing (Hebrews 4:12) when we read His words and all of a sudden we notice something we had never seen before. I notice two things in this one short verse. The words--"often" and "lonely places". The word "often" tells me that Jesus made this a habit. Wow! "Lonely places" doesn't always sound wonderful to an extrovert. But I can tell you that the older I get, the more I feel the need to embrace those lonely places more often. If Jesus, the perfect Son of God, needed to do this, how much more do I need to do it?
The lonely places give me a chance to realize who God is and my relationship to Him. I can shut out the other voices and listen to the One who created me. I can get back to some basic truths and feel the freedom found there.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own."
Matthew 6:33-34
"Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:30