Introductory Thoughts
It may come as a surprise to most people, but there were times when the Lord Jesus desired to go from place to place without attracting the attention of the multitudes. The constant thronging by the crowds of people apparently physically drained the Saviour. As God, Christ never grows weary. As man, Christ needed rest. According to scripture, the One who came to give Himself a ransom for all had moments where He wanted to hide Himself. It should come as no surprise that Christians today will, at times, find themselves desiring to hide from the very ones to whom they have been called to minister. This is part of man’s natural need for rest. Even the Saviour had times when He desired rest and seclusion.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Jesus did many miracles and the crowds followed Him. There were times when He told those who received healing not to say anything. Jesus knew He needed rest (Matthew 9:27-31; Mark 1:40-45).
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(For everyone): Do you ever have times where you wish you could go into hiding and rest from the daily burdens of ministry? Is this a sinful desire? Can it become a sinful desire?
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The news of the Lords arrival could not be hidden. Do you ever feel as though there are times that you cannot go into hiding? Why is it imperative that you find times to go into seclusion?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you the wisdom to know when to rest.
- Ask God to help you find times to go into hiding.
Song
COME, YE DISCONSOLATE
