Restless and Running

“Our hearts are restless till we rest in thee.”  –St. Augustine

In Matthew 15, Jesus tells a story of a restless son working in his father’s house.  The son wanted his inheritance early so that he could go out and have fun.  He learned that in his father’s house he was safe, but as soon as he left he was in danger.  The same spirit of restlessness can also infiltrate our hearts.  As soon as some people go through a crisis their instincts tell them to run.  They run from their marriage. They run from their ministry.  They run from their mission.  If you’re restless and thinking about running, stay put. If you’ve already run away then remember that there is still a place for you in the father’s house.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27, NIV).