RUNNING AWAY!
When we are visited by times of crisis, there’s an internal mechanism that comes alive within every human being. It causes a reaction within us that cuts against the very fiber of our purposed creation. Our Adamic nature comes fully loaded with such behaviors and reactions. And when times of predicaments come, we all naturally and immediately operate out of fear, pride and selfishness. These “soulish reactions” manifest various negative physical actions. And one such action is running away.
We all tend to run away from tight spots, problems and crisis. And although it’s a natural response, it creates unnatural consequences. It requires integrity and character to face issues; unfortunately these are qualities that must be built up in us. Running away is a temptation we all face everyday of our lives. Its main purpose is to either create more problems for you or destroy your character and credibility.
But there is another “running away” that’s not negative. As a matter of fact, it’s much needed in the life of a believer. These are times when we check out and run into the arms of God.
I’m beginning to be a greater proponent of retreats and get-a-ways. I believe the busier we get, the more focus we need. And we have to use various calculated times to totally disconnect from what we do and connect with the WHO we do it for.
Scripture tells us that Jesus did this all the time. He took the disciples to solitary places to pray and spend time together. And the crazy thing was that he “ran away” to pray when the heat of ministry was at its maximum. I’ve found myself in the last 20 years to do the opposite. Not Good.
That is why we are now going on PRAYER ESCAPES at least four times a year. Yes, in the middle of our crazy schedules, during the craziest times of ministry, we are unplugging and plugging into HIM. This “running away” seemed to really work for Jesus, I believe it will do the same for us.
This Friday and Saturday is our last one for the year. We’re very excited about it. It couldn’t come at a busier time. That is why we have to run away and escape to His Presence! Let’s run to JESUS and embrace Him – the Author and Finisher of our faith!
If you desire to join us, feel free to call our church offices and speak with Pastor Johnny.
See you there!
Would have loved to have been a part of this prayer escape, but im excited that we will have more. Cant wait to hear what God speaks to you, as you pray and listen for His direction.
I expect great things to happen at the prayer escape. It is a very busy time in all of our lives right now but this prayer retreat could not have come at a better time. God will show up, show out, and show us the way.
Pastor your blog today is a reflection of what many times Jalina used to do. Note, emphasis on used to, now when I get those feelings I just want my Island to myself. Thank God to those people in my life that influence me and know me so well. They bring me back to focus when I start talking like that.
I am disappointed that I will not be able to be part of the Prayer Escape this weekend but know that God’s presence is there and God is going to do an awesome thing. He did it before when your took us on the previous retreat. Looking forward to hearing all about it and know that I am praying with you for the direction of our house.
Well Pastor I see when times get hard people check out because they don’t want nobody to see them in a hole. it great that we can get away and pray so we can talk to lord and tell him how much we love him.
The prayer retreat will be awesome. “Running to God” sounds good.
I am excited about the prayer escape. May we run away into God’s arms and surrender every care and burden unto him and worship him like never before.
Wow thats so true, Jesus did get away from the heat of his ministry to a retreat place to pray and seek God’s face and guidance. That is so awesome because we most look and seek God’s arms in time of trouble.
This blog really really hit home as so many
of your writings do. I know it has always
been fear from painful experiences that I’ve
had early in my life.
Now I KNOW all I have to do is PRAY as I run
into the arms of my HEAVENLY FATHER.
A much needed time to be in the presence of God. We will build a culture of prayer in Impact Church!