Select Page

He Often Withdrew

by | Apr 2, 2019 | Encouragement | 4 comments

When I read the book Whispers and Wildflowers, it was like a breath of fresh air. Somewhere in the depths of my heart, I knew it was a book that would be picked up again.

And so this month of April, I am going through the book again.

I am not sure where each of you find yourselves in this season of life. Lately I feel “busier” than days past. There could be many explanations for this but somehow, it seems to be the times in which we are living. We all are finding ourselves “busier” than ever and probably, busier than we truly care to be.

Here’s the thing I am discovering about Jesus – He did not press into the “busy”. He didn’t brag about being able to multitask and run in ten different directions at once. He didn’t talk about His “to do” list nor about His full His plates and how well He juggled them all.

This is what Jesus did instead:

“But despite Jesus’ instructions, the report of his power spread even faster, and vast crowds came to hear him preach and to be healed of their diseases. But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.” (Luke 5:15-16, NLT)

In the midst of a thriving ministry and becoming well known; in the midst of more people seeking Him out; in the midst of having more to do –

Jesus withdrew.

Can I hear an amen? Please?

Is it only me or could we all find some solace, peace, and rest in withdrawing?

We may not be able to physically leave everything behind and get away from it all. But we can “withdraw” for a few quiet moments each day. In a sense – strategically withdraw – make a plan. Carve the time out with intention and for a purpose.

Try earnestly to slow your pace, read Scripture, and sit quietly with the Father.
If Jesus found He needed to do this, 
how much more should we?

 

*This post contains affiliate links.  If you click through and make a purchase, I will receive a small percent at no additional cost to you.
Photo by Alex Jones on Unsplash
Today I am joining … Tell His Story and Grace Full Tuesday .


In My Thoughts,
Joanne

4 Comments

  1. Lynn
    Lynn on April 2, 2019 at 9:19 am

    Isn’t it interesting too, that He withdrew to the ‘wilderness.’ The wilderness can be known as a place of uncertainty, yet this scripture teaches it is a place of rest where God fills, guides, and sustains us!

    • Joanne
      Joanne on April 10, 2019 at 8:56 am

      Lynn, it is amazing how the word “wilderness” has such a negative connotation. Yet it is the place where God meets us and brings about blessing.

  2. Lauren Renee Sparks
    Lauren Renee Sparks on April 2, 2019 at 6:32 pm

    I am loving this idea and figuring out how to get more “sabbath” into my every day. laurensparks.net

    • Joanne
      Joanne on April 10, 2019 at 8:57 am

      Lauren, may our God show you exactly how to do this in your life. I am so grateful this can look differently for each one of us. Blessings!