A Do-Nothing Vacation
Theme of the Week: Hurried Sick
Paul Borthwick
Saturday, August 30, 2003
 1 of 1
Q. What purposes can a low-key vacation accomplish?
A.• Rest. Chronic exhaustion shortens our tempers, undermines our relationships, and increases the likelihood of bad decisions. A vacation can recharge our batteries, providing the rest our bodies and souls crave.
• Gratitude. After each phase of creation, God stopped and observed, "It is good." We can pause during vacation and recall the good things God has done. On my vacations, I write a "thankfulness list" to help me see all of the ways he has been at work.
• Reflection. Restful vacations help us to evaluate our priorities and commitments. Jesus frequently withdrew from the crowds to be alone with God and to pray (Mark 1:35, Luke 5:16). We also need to retreat to reflect on where we've been and where we're going.
• Relationships. Sometimes we need time away to get an objective perspective on how we're relating to the people closest to us. Then we can return to everyday life with our most important relationships in balance.
• Grace. Although salvation comes from God's grace alone, we're often tempted to live by works. We may find it tough to receive God's love on days we don't accomplish anything more than a snooze in the shade. Vacations remind us that our work isn't all that matters.
• Refocusing. A break from routines offers a chance to renew—or start—spiritual disciplines we've neglected. My vacations have reignited a desire to journal. Perhaps yours will jump-start your Bible reading, intercessory prayer, or Scripture memorization.
Paul Borthwick is a senior consultant with Development Associates International.
Adapted from Discipleship Journal (1-2/02) by permission.
Copyright © 2003 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.
1 of 1
 share this page
Eternal Father, I know it's not Your plan for me to feel driven. Please reveal to me Your perspective on my time.
Men of Integrity
Connect with God | Transform my Mind | Live by His Power
Relate Better | Make an Impact
Home | Archives | Contact Us
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
Try an Issue of Men of Integrity
Free!
|
 |
|
No credit card required. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Offer valid in U.S. only. Click here for International orders.
If you decide you want to keep Men of Integrity coming, honor your invoice for just $19.95 and receive five more issues, a full year in all. If not, simply write "cancel" across the invoice and return it. The trial issue is yours to keep, regardless.
Give Men of Integrity as a gift
Buy 1 gift subscription, get 1 FREE!
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
| 
RSS Feed
