It’s hard to believe, but today is our last class day in Women’s Bible Connection at Rocky. I have loved getting to know this group of ladies, learning beautiful truths from God’s Word and finding encouragement from both God and the ladies.

And as WBC comes to an end, a summer of respite is just around the corner.

I look forward to these few weeks of a non-structured schedule, especially this year. I have a full season under my belt for women’s ministry. There have been some great victories and a few disappointments, but all-in-all, the year has been extremely rewarding and uplifting.

Yes, respite will be good for me. Time to reflect. Time to create. Time to be in God’s presence. I’m looking forward to the slower pace of summer.

So what about you? Have you been running on empty for a while? Are you in need of a time of respite? If so, I pray that you will take the time over the next few months to determine what is important in your world and what can be removed. There is nothing worse than feeling overwhelmed or under-energized. Respite just might do you some good!

Jesus felt the burden of His day-to-day life and needed to find a time to rest. Over and over in Scripture we see Jesus removing Himself from the crowds and His disciples to spend time with His Heavenly Father. If it was that important to Jesus, I’m sure you can see the value for your own life.

Maybe you can’t take a whole summer to draw closer to God, but you can take a few moments each day to get away from the struggles of the day. Remember the slogan from that Calgon commercial from years ago? “Take me away!” That’s what you need. A get away with God.

King David understood respite. Psalm 16:11 reassures us that there is fullness of joy in God’s presence. And Psalm 95:2 (NIV) reminds us that we are to “come before Him with thanksgiving.” And Psalm 100:2 (NIV) says that we are to “come before Him with joyful songs.”

If you are looking for joy in your life, I believe you know where to look. And as you find fullness of joy in God’s presence, you will be able to come before Him with thanksgiving and with joyful songs.

If you need a time of respite today, I pray that you will take that important step toward God. He’s waiting patiently for you to come to Him.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna