SUMMARY: Labor pains
OVERVIEW: Isaiah is in anguish after God shows him three visions of judgment.
BIG IDEA: Seek comfort from God and rest after serving.
KEY VERSE: Isaiah 21:3 (Isaiah overwhelmed by vision)
At this my body is racked with pain, pangs seize me, like those of a woman in labor; I am staggered by what I hear, I am bewildered by what I see.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I have called you to follow me and serve me. It is a high calling, one to take pride in and one in which you can find pleasure. But it will not be easy. You will see things that trouble you, and you will hear things that haunt you. You will also feel overwhelmed and want the discomfort to end. But do not give up. Continue to follow me and follow through on what I’ve called you to do. Your pain is far less than those I want you to serve. Offer them relief by sharing my love. Remind them I am with them.
Recognize, however, that some will want nothing to do with me or my word. Nothing you say or do will change their minds, and they will continue to live however they choose. The pain you feel and the emptiness you see in their eyes is nothing compared to what I experience. My heart aches when people reject me. Yet, I still faithfully love and serve them, and I want you to do so as well.
NEXT STEP
Feel overwhelmed by your ministry at church or in your community? You may need to take a break to catch your breath. Take time to rest. Receive reminders from God of his love and available power. Then come back with a desire and commitment to faithfully love and help others know God is with them and for them.
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