Strong Tower

Is there a time when it is OK to withdraw from ministry, to leave your calling behind for a time, and just rest in God? Does God plan for that? Does he approve? Or does he think that we should continue to rely on him to give us energy and motivation, so that we never take time away from what he wants us to do?

I particularly like the story of Elijah resting under a broom tree in 1 Kings 19:1-9. God sent angels to care for Elijah. He could have told Elijah to pick up his backpack and get back to work, but he didn't. God cared for his prophet.

One of the lectionary readings this week is from Psalm 71. Read this verse (3):

Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.

What do you think it means for God to be our fortress? Kutless has a song called Strong Tower, and until this moment, I've never really looked at the words.

When I wander through the desert
And I'm longing for my home
All my dreams have gone astray
When I'm stranded in the valley
And I'm tired and all alone
It seems like I've lost my way
I go running to Your mountain
Where your mercy sets me free

[chorus]You are my strong tower
Shelter over me
Beautiful and mighty
Everlasting King
You are my strong tower
Fortress when I'm weak
Your name is true and holy
And Your face is all I seek

In the middle of my darkness
In the nidst of all my fear
You're my refuge and my hope
When the storm of life is raging
And the thunder's all I hear
You speak softly to my soul

God is our fortress, our protection, our rock. He is fine if we take some time to rest in him. He knows our needs, and he is willing and eager to meet them.