I've been there too. Working hard for the Lord, leading Bible study after Bible study, writing articles about faith & God's Word, getting ready for mission trips and camp and retreats and everything else. And at the end of the day, I was exhausted but not fulfilled. I loved my job and helping others grow in their faith...but my faith...what about my faith?
Restore to me the joy of your salvation. Psalm 51:12
The joy of your salvation. It wasn't until I stepped away from my job, stopped working in the church, did I realize that the joy of salvation was for everyone else...I had neglected myself. My pastor used to always ask me, "how is your quiet time?" And I would always answer, "it's ok." But it wasn't. My faith was on the back burner. I look back on that now and ask myself, "How was I a good spiritual leader with my faith life always being pushed to the side?'
Listen to this: Your faith needs to come first! After I quit working I spent some good time with God and let me tell you, He let me have it! If only I had spent that time back then in the office like I do now. And, though this is quite a different thing to do, I now go to another church every week for Bible study. Yes, I know, crazy! But really? Is it? Hasn't God placed godly leaders all around us? I can have quiet time, but it is also helpful to be fed by another person God has called, by another person who has insight into the Word, who thinks a differently than me. And to be in a place where people don't know what I do...I am not being asked all the questions.
I encourage you, get fed! Don't allow yourself to become the church worker who quietly says (to yourself), "Joy?" Heck yes! Joy of God'salvation! For you! Not just the one's you serve, that you desperatly try to reach.
So, I ask you: How is it with your soul?
Email me. Let me know your questions or Bible study habits. We can all use new ideas to implement in our own lives.
