July/August 2019...

Dear Friends,

Friday was a beautiful day. I was outside almost all day. I mowed the grass, trimmed the hedge, used the weed wacker, did a little painting, and just sat on the porch. I was sore and tired when the sun went down but I felt renewed. A day outside, in the sun seemed to soak into my soul.

Maybe you have felt the same way after a day in the sun. And haven’t you found yourself similarly renewed in other situations.

• A cold drink on a hot day.
• A great meal on a special occasion.
• Time with family and friends
• A weekend trip
  
  

We human beings are created with limits. We use up our energy and mental capacities. Fatigue can become greater than one night’s sleep will restore. We need to be renewed regularly.

Is it no wonder then that we need to be renewed spiritually? Our spirits contend with the world just as our bodies and minds do. Our spirits become worn by daily life and by periods of struggle or suffering.

Wesley taught the early Methodists to employ the means of grace for their spiritual renewal.

He listed these practices in the General Rules for the United Societies (the original name of the Methodist movement in England):

• Public worship.
• Ministry of the Word, either read or expounded. The Supper of the Lord.
• Family and private prayer.
• Searching the Scriptures.
• Fasting or abstinence.

He also added conversation with other believers designed to encourage us and hold us accountable.
So this summer take advantage of blue skies, family reunions, and outdoor BBQs. And do not neglect your spirit.

Here are some thoughts on prayer:

• Make sure you express thanks. You can be thankful for little things, a beautiful day,
  your car that starts. Why not be thankful when we are so disappointed with the
  opposite happening.
• Read a passage of scripture and spend time in prayer asking the Lord to apply it to
  you. “Turn the other cheek” is not hard to understand, but it is very hard to do.
• Pray for someone who needs something other than healing. Spend more time than just
  mentioning their name and really pray.
• Set your phone with a daily reminder to pray. It will help you get started.

God knows our limits because he created us. He doesn’t think less of us because we have to return to him again and again for spiritual fuel. In fact, that practice is a huge part of faith. So keep the faith this summer. Renew your spirit. You will not regret it.
​     ~ Pastor Byron

---