Sermon Title: Developing a sustainable pace
Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30
People tend to fall into 1 of 2 paces: a Fatal Pace or a Complacent Pace.
I. Fatal Pace is running after something at too great a speed that is unsustainable.
So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear? For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:32-33
II. Complacent Pace.
“A sabbatical isn’t the solution to an unsustainable life. A sustainable pace is the solution to an unsustainable pace.” “Why Your Time Off Will Never Be Enough to Truly DeStress You” - Carey Nieuwhof
“We want each of you to show the same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what God has promised.” Hebrews 6:11-12
III. Here’s a third option: Living life at a Sacred Pace.
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Ephesians 5:15-18
“Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” Galatians 5:25
Some practical ways we can examine our pace.
- Do I really have a kingdom vision or has my vision of life been corrupted by the world?
- Am I exhausted because I’m chasing the things the pagans are running after?
- Have I let them dictate to me the pace at which my life should be lived at?
- Is my personal desire driving me further than where the Spirit is leading me?
- Do I have a clear sense of calling?
- Am I doing what God has for me or am I living by expectations and obligations others have put on me?