During the summer, baseball is very popular in our area. At a recent game, the Lord spoke to my heart through a beautiful, but unexpected sight, a few bleachers ahead of me.
Allow me to set the scene. It was a hot summer day, and the humidity (and intense rivalry) were thick in the air. The stands were visibly divided, with each side cheering loudly for their respective teams. Noisemakers rattled, rang, clapped, and honked alongside the roar of the crowd. Approximately two hundred people watched and cheered for the players on the field.
As my eyes scanned the scene, I was drawn to one particular sight. There, despite the intensity of the atmosphere, heat, and unrelenting noise, lay a toddler SLEEPING in his mother’s arms. (As my husband would say, “That’ll preach!”) And oh, did it ever! Upon beholding that child safe in his mother’s arms, I knew the Lord was speaking to my weary heart, and I’d have to share!
Our rest, peace, confidence, defense, and restoration can only be found in the Lord. Sure, we all know this, but can we honestly say we are living, walking together in marriage, raising our families, and ministering like we believe it? If I am completely honest, sometimes I live as if I’ve forgotten. Thus, whatever burdens I’ve laid at His feet, I’ve reclaimed to worry, wrestle, doubt, battle, and grow weary over. If we put those lists (in bold) side by side, they’re the complete opposite of one another. They’re also contrary to the invitation and promise of our Heavenly Father in Matthew 11.
What a promise! It was a comfort to know, and have a real life picture of this truth: I am always SAFE! in the arms of my Heavenly Father. (You have to say “safe” in an umpire’s voice, naturally. Pardon the pun there, but it fit!) In all seriousness though, no matter the “noise” (talk), tension, or “heat” (pressure) that surrounds any given situation… He’s got us in His arms and we can rest – Praise God!
There’s more to come on how the Lord used this sight to speak to me, but this concept of rest was my immediate takeaway. I am thankful for the reminder!
So, until next time, beloved, “come unto Him”. Just as this child did with his mother, draw near. There you’ll find rest for your soul. In so doing, you will find the strength to remain steadfast, unmovable, and always abounding!
