God's faithfulness (definitely not ours)

Have you ever noticed the irony between the struggle to read through the Old Testament and the stories/words contained in those books? We are just like the Israelites, excited about news of deliverance and hope, but easily dissatisfied and discouraged. We decide we should build a golden calf just to give us something tangible to worship and find contentment. If only our hearts were more in tune with the covenant promises of God, which are sustaining and life-giving, but require patience and endurance and...well, the power of God and His Gospel, not man.

Cari and I found rest over the weekend at a friend's lake house on Lake Barkeley in Kentucky. Within a two hour drive, the house backs up to the lake and provides a great atmosphere to relax and enjoy the beauty of creation. Though it seemed so short (only about 24 hours), our hearts were renewed and energies restored. It can be so difficult to make time for rest, but we never quite know the depth of our need for it until we rest.