The Best of the Portals of Prayer

Read: Exodus 20:8-11 // Psalm 63

“Jesus said: ‘come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.’ “
Mark 6:31

Retreat!

Soldiers march, but sometimes it is also best that they retreat. When you hear than an Army is retreating, it may sound like they are losing. However, history teaches us that sometimes the wisest and bravest leaders will order a retreat. It may lead to a better position, a replenishment of supplies, and an ultimate victory.
Christians also must wisely choose time to “retreat”. Weekly worship is a retreat that replenishes us for a week back out in the world. Daily time with the Lord in His Word and through prayer is a retreat to our ultimate strength. Another time to retreat is when we find ourselves in a situation that would lead to sin. At times, the wisest course is to retreat, pull back, to return to locations with people who support and encourage your faith in Jesus rather than to corrupt it.
Jesus never backed away from a battle, but He regularly took time in communion with His Father to replenish His strength for completing His mission of salvation for all.

Jesus, lead me to gather new strength in Your Word and in Your Holy Supper. Amen.

August 19, 2000