Down Time #1 – Slow Down

It is very close to Christmas time … a time when things get crazy busy and sometimes the busyness of the season robs us of the meaning of the season. This morning’s message introduced the contrasting concepts of susceptibility and sustainability: 1) susceptibility characterized by a life of constant activity without a pause or break which leaves you vulnerable to fatigue or illness; 2) sustainability characterized by a life of activity balanced by periods of pause or rest which leads to a satisfying or refreshing life.

DOWN TIME

Message by Bill Johnston – November 5, 2017

SLOW DOWN

CONCEPT 1: SUSCEPTIBILITY

CONCEPT 2: SUSTAINABILITY

This is about the speed of life
The speed or pace of life often impacts you physically
The main indicator is non-stop activity

Click here to see Video: Train vs tornado

Mark 6:30-31 The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.

CONSEQUENCES IF YOU DON’T SLOW DOWN

1. PHYSICAL EXHAUSTION

1 Samuel 14:24-31

2. PREMATURE AGING

Words of wisdom: slow down before you break down

What is necessary is retardation

THREE REALITIES AND THREE RESULTS

1. REALITY: The faster the speed of life, the greater the strain on the body

RESULT: Your body finds relief from the constant tension and strain

2. REALITY: The faster the speed of life, the less of life you see

RESULT: You begin to regain perspective

Matthew 13:1 Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake.

3. REALITY: The faster the speed of life, the slower the growth of our relationships

RESULT: You begin to appreciate the value of people again

TAKE-AWAY: SPEED OF LIFE ASSESSMENT

Determine if the pace of your life is marked by susceptibility or sustainability
Determine the impact of the speed of your life (physically, emotionally, relationally)
Decide the first step you need to take in order to slow down
Begin to apply your decision today

Jeremiah 6:16 This is what the Lord says: “Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls…”

For Sermon discussion resources click here: Nov 5 Sermon Resources