Series Introduction: 

In this series, we will be looking at how to live sustainable lives as believers. Resilience is a skill that can be learned. There are things we can do to help us last the distance, to run the race with endurance. Resilience is often defined as the ability to bounce back after a setback. I prefer to think of it as bouncing forward, not back to where we were before, but further ahead; we have grown and adapted. We will explore some of the keys the Bible gives us to be resilient in our faith. 

Reflection : The Lord leads us to rest and refreshment if we follow his leading. Sometimes we need to stop, rest, reflect and be refreshed. Even God rested on the seventh day after creating the world. Are you allowing enough time for sleep, and time for the Lord to restore and refresh your soul? Are you making time to read the Bible, to allow the word of God to speak to you and your circumstances? Are you taking time to pray, to have fellowship with God, to be still, allowing time and waiting to hear from God?  Are you making space in your schedule to sit and relax – maybe in your favourite park, or in your garden (I always feel closer to God in nature) or in your favourite café? Are you making time to be encouraged by your close friends – sharing some laughter and good times together? Are you making time for fun with your family? For a picnic? It is in these times that we can be refreshed.

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust you and to take time to rest. Help me to focus on you and be open to you speaking to me. Jesus, thank you for the example you set and for your loving care of me and my situation.  Amen.