The Spiritual Recliner

458 - Today's Prime Time Devo comes from: 2Sa 7:1 Now it came to pass when the king was dwelling in his house, and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies all around, (2 Sam 7:1) Picture David in his magnificent house that Hiram had built for him, enjoying his life to the fullest. The Philistines and all other enemies have been defeated and he is enjoying this time of rest in his life. The word rest here means “to settle down.” I get a picture of coming home after a days work and settling down in the comforts of my favorite recliner. Ahhh comfort, Ahhhh peace, Ahhh security. What a gift! Living in this world is not easy. There are so many problems that come our way simply because we live in a fallen world. We are always one doctor's exam away from unrest, one layoff, one break-up, one besetting sin, from disturbing our peace. Persecuted Christians are one regime away from suffering, pain, loss and even death. Where can we find rest from the day to day stress of living? Jesus said in Mt 11:28 "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. The word “rest” here means to repose, and repose is just another word for settling into your favorite recliner. Come to Jesus and you will find a recliner for your soul! Let that word picture sink in for awhile! Take His yoke upon you, in other words, let Him share the load that comes your way by the mere fact of your existence in this sin-sick world. Cast your cares upon Him for He cares for you. David caught a break here from all his enemies. He was experiencing a time of rest, and note that this rest was a gift from God. There are times in our own lives when we might get a respite from those things that rob us of our peace. I have learned with David that these times are a gift from God, and I try to remember to thank Him for them, and at the same time, remain alert, lest I be lulled into spiritual apathy. When things are going well, and God has granted me peace, I think the best thing I can do is use that opportunity to pray for that same gift for those who's lives are in turmoil.