August is almost upon us and with that comes the restart of school. We are praying for all the families of the church — whether homeschooling, charter, private, or public — as each option will have its unique challenges this fall. May God give you all grace if you are in the schooling year!

Four thoughts as we move forward into this month:

1. If possible, take a break!
   We are created for rhythms of rest. We’ve all been under a lot of stress in managing family relationships, finances, and new ways of operating in the world. Don’t overlook the benefit of taking some time away from the normal rhythms (if you can) to get some rest. Your long-run self will thank you.
2. Take a break from social media
   The constant noise of opinions can drown out the one voice we need to hear the most — God’s. Maybe you are in need of social media or digital detox! (I’ve deleted Facebook from my phone for a season and it’s made a huge impact on my ability to focus on Christ, though I can still access by the computer when I’m wanting to intentionally post something).
3. Don’t skip your Bible reading/prayer
   We hear God’s speaking to us as we read His Word. There are no substitute words that can replace what God says in His book through His Word. It doesn’t have to be a deep dive into the Greek syntax — just put your eyes on what God says and trust that it will profit your soul. Read Titus for a short book, Romans for a longer one.
4. Read a book that refreshes your soul
   I know, reading a book is so old school! You should try it though sometime 🙂 I recommend “Gentle and Lowly” by Dane Ortlund on the heart of Christ for us. What a wonderful book, unfolding Jesus’ love for sinners like me! I read it over vacation and I found my heart more amazed at the relationship I have with God because of Christ. You’ll enjoy it, I promise.

Pastor Chris