Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
October 28, 2023
Matthew 14:22-33
22 Right then, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead to the other side of the lake while he dismissed the crowds. 23 When he sent them away, he went up onto a mountain by himself to pray. Evening came, and he was alone. 24 Meanwhile, the boat, fighting a strong headwind, was being battered by the waves and was already far away from land. 25 Very early in the morning, he came to his disciples, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified and said, “It’s a ghost!” They were so frightened they screamed. 27 Just then, Jesus spoke to them, “Be encouraged! It’s me. Don’t be afraid.” 28 Peter replied, “Lord if it’s you, order me to come to you on the water.” 29 And Jesus said, “Come.” Then Peter got out of the boat and was walking on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when Peter saw the strong wind, he became frightened. As he began to sink, he shouted, “Lord, rescue me!” 31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him, saying, “You man of weak faith! Why did you begin to have doubts?” 32 When they got into the boat, the wind settled down. 33 Then those in the boat worshipped Jesus and said, “You must be God’s Son!”
Good Morning. Take time to pray!
I have spent much time looking at the passage, and I have focused on Peter in many of my devotionals. Today, I want to look at the very first part of the passage where Jesus sends the disciples ahead of him and goes to the mountain to pray.
Too many times, we know we are exhausted, yet we will not allow ourselves the grace to rest. We continue to drag ourselves to meetings and events despite our need for a break. If Jesus, the son of God, took time to rest and pray, then who are we to refuse to step away?
When we finally sit, we are overwhelmed and too tired to function. In the passage, Jesus has finished speaking and teaching to the thousands. He takes care of what needs to be done, and then recharges himself with prayer and rest.
When we rest, we are refreshed, renewed, and ready to see things clearly.
Creator God, We love you! Help us accept our need to take time off so that we can serve you with joy. Thank you for loving us. In the name of Christ, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Follow the example set by Jesus.
Rest and Rejuvenate! Pastor Liz
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