Overwhelmed and Bewildered!

Dear Pastors

Overwhelmed and Bewildered!

I don’t know about you but I must confess that from time to time I feel overwhelmed and quite frankly bewildered. As I read and listen to other pastors and as I mix it with God’s people I have concluded I may not be the only one.

As pastors and Christian leaders we all are living with our own personal challenges. In my case getting older is a whole new experience and coming to terms with that is not straight forward to be honest. Add in the challenges that our adult kids are facing not to say anything about our grandchildren. Never was there a truer thing said, “once a parent ALWAYS a parent”.

And then there is the world in which we all live. It feels at times that the whole world order that I have safely lived in all my life is being upended. Is that an exaggeration? Maybe……. but that is precisely my point……it’s how I feel sometimes and feelings aren’t always rational.

It feels at times that the whole world order that I have safely lived in all my life is being upended.

So, here are a few things that I remind myself about. More than that I think our people need to hear us talk about these things, these ‘spiritual disciplines’.

1. Seek God in Prayer
   When feeling overwhelmed, turning to God in prayer can bring peace.
   "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
2. Meditate on Scripture
   God’s Word offers encouragement and strength. Verses like:
   · Matthew 11:28-30 – "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
   · Psalm 61:2 – "When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I."
   · Isaiah 41:10 – "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
3. Worship and Gratitude
   Worship shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness. Singing worship songs or simply thanking God for His past faithfulness can change our perspective.
4. Rest in God’s Sovereignty
   Trust that God is in control, even when life feels chaotic. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverb 3:5-6
5. Share Your feelings, worries and burdens
   God didn’t design us to carry our struggles alone. Hallelujah! Talking about it can really help.
6. Take Practical Steps
   · Rest and take care of your body.
   · Organize tasks and set priorities.
   · Intentionally seek after beauty for an hour or two each week.
   · Engage in things that bring you joy and refresh your spirit.

Hope this is both helpful and useful?

Blessings
Alan

A Brand New Musical

I want to highly recommend this musical…..and this message. My friend and colleague, Steve Worsley is the Show Writer and Director. I have had the privilege of hearing Steve share his passion and vision for this show over the last 18 months and I can’t wait to see it. You can learn more about the show and check out the stellar cast here.

If you're in Auckland would you consider the following?

1. Would you consider pulling together a group of 8 (groups of 8 get a discount) for this show? Ticketing is here
2. Could you send someone, or some group, the email flier below? Simply right click on and copy it, then paste it into an email to someone.