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
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Amazon Music | RSS