iShineInMinistry

Psalm 139:3 (NET)

You carefully observe me when I travel or when I lie down to rest;

you are aware of everything I do.

It's that time of year again! School is in full swing and so is ministry for the upcoming holidays. There isn't a moment in the day where you don't have some task or duty on your unending to-do list. You are to the point where you may have to start scheduling sleeping and eating to stay afloat. We all know this is the time of year where we get too busy to really take care of our bodies; yet we know that we need to stay healthy to do all the things we are called to do as we serve the Lord and the people of God. We need to take these three safeguards to heart so that we don't burn out before Christmas Eve! See below and then ask the Lord to help you consistently do these needed things.

1) Eat Well: Take the first few hours of the day to get filled up spiritually and physically...doing your devotional and having some fruits, veggies and protein. You will keep your energy level up in every sense of the word and also get the vitamins needed to keep you immune system ready to fight off fall germs!

2) Pray Often: When the going gets busy, we seem to talk and listen to God less. This should be the opposite effect considering that we need His strength to do what He has called us to do. As soon as you feel the need to flesh out, ask God for grace and mercy (for yourself and that thorn in your flesh that is standing in front of you). Then make sure to go before the Lord throughout your day, having a constant line of communication with Him, so that all that flows from you in those stressful moments is the fruit of the Spirit, not the wrath of a mean girl.

3) Go to BED: Your body has to recuperate from all of the extra time, work, ministry and activities that are going on during this season. This is not the time to become a forced insomniac. Say no to a dinner outing or early morning coffee date, you can't be everywhere all at the same time. Even Jesus went off alone...trust me, we aren't as legit as Jesus so we need some sleep. Cuddle up with some chamomile at night and sleep in a little on Saturday morning. Your body will thank you...and not go on strike by way of sickness.

I hope you will prayerfully find ways to place these things on your priority list during this active season. We can't shine as bright with the flu or a hangry attitude because our blood sugar is too low from lack of food. Be wise as you serve and enjoy this fabulous and fast season of ministry!!