Daily devotion – a vacation with our Lord
In Job 1:6-12, we see a powerful dialogue between God and Satan. Satan, roaming the earth, comes before the Lord and accuses Job of only serving God because of the blessings and protection God has provided. This passage teaches us several crucial lessons about spiritual vigilance, especially during times of ease and rest.
Like Job, we can sometimes experience times of peace, prosperity, or relaxation—such as during school holidays or vacations—where we might be tempted to let our spiritual disciplines slip. However, as believers, we are called to be vigilant, recognizing that, just as Satan was watching Job, the enemy of our soul never takes a break.
In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul urges us to “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” This applies even during vacations and breaks from our usual routine. While rest and relaxation are necessary for our physical and emotional health, we must remember that our spiritual walk with God should remain consistent.
Ephesians 6:18 reminds us to be “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance.” This verse calls us to be spiritually alert, maintaining our connection with God even when we’re in “rest” mode. The enemy seeks opportunities when we let our guard down, so maintaining a disciplined routine of Bible reading, prayer, and fellowship is essential, even during times of relaxation.
Vacation time can also be an opportunity for spiritual growth. Free from the usual pressures of daily life, we can spend more time in prayer, meditation, and Bible study. Families can use the extra time together to have meaningful discussions about their faith, read Scripture together, and grow closer to God in a different, more intentional way.
While it’s important to take a break from the busy routines of life, let’s not take a break from our walk with Christ. Remember, Christ is with you on your vacation too! Whether you are strolling on a beautiful beach or sitting by a campfire, take advantage of the quiet moments to connect with God in a deeper way. Use this time to read more of His Word, spend longer moments in prayer, and seek His guidance for your life.
As you relax and recharge physically, let it be a time of spiritual refreshing as well. Just as Job remained steadfast through the trials, we too must remain faithful to God in every season, knowing that His presence is with us wherever we go.