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Winter 2011

“…The angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, ‘What’s the matter, Hagar?'” — Genesis 21:17

Have you ever gone to the doctor and complained, “Something’s wrong. What’s the matter with me?”, only to have him conclude after examination, “I can find nothing wrong. You just need a rest.”? In your fast-paced, stressed-out life, do you long for a time of refreshment? I know I do! There have been times when even a hospital stay has appeared attractive, simply because of the rest it would seem to afford.

But looking at my schedule for 2011, I know I will have to be intentional if I want to get some rest! By the end of January, I will have spoken in two US cities, as well as Switzerland.

It makes me tired just to look past those commitments and on into the New Year when I’m scheduled to tape two new curriculum videos; complete three book projects; speak in Jerusalem; host a national simulcast on September 11th; address a women’s conference in London, England; and lead a week of ministry in Uganda. All of this is in addition to other speaking engagements; recording my daily radio feature; conducting media interviews; and overseeing my ministry organization — all while being a wife, mother and grandmother!

However, a physical vacation is not the only answer to the swirling pressure and pace of my life in 2011. While I know I will have to discipline myself to take a break from time to time, my real concern is that I not become weary in my spirit. I will need to make spiritual rest a priority — the rest that’s found in setting aside consistent time with God in His Word and in prayer.

Henry Drummond, an old-time revivalist, explained that spiritual rest “is not a hallowed feeling that comes over us in church. It is … the repose of a heart set deep in God.” Do you need that kind of rest? Now?

…Rest because you operated on overload for 2010, and 2011 is just as bad?
…Rest because you are on the verge of burn-out?
…Rest from the self-effort of trying to please God?
…Rest from plotting revenge?
…Rest from manipulating people or circumstances to get your way?
…Rest from striving so hard to get credit or attention?
…Rest from worry, fear, anger or self-pity?

Then go forward into the New Year by going back to the Cross. Lay your burdens down. Let all your strivings cease. Release your life to the Savior who found His rest in the center of His Father’s will.

This AnGeL cares about what’s the matter with you, because it may be what’s the matter with me, too. So…join me in my 2011 New Year’s resolution to be well-rested. How? By centering down in Jesus. Starting each day with at least thirty minutes of quiet, uninterrupted Bible reading and prayer. Following Him step by step as He leads us in the right path, beside the still waters, and restores us on the inside.

Click here for the Bible study especially developed for this newsletter.

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Anne’s Newest Audio Resource: Refreshment CD Album

Are you running on empty? Trying to give others Water from a dry well?

This 3-CD album from Anne ministers especially to those who are actively serving the Lord either as a volunteer or in a part-time or full-time capacity, such as pastoral staff, church and/or parachurch leaders, Sunday school teachers, missionaries or youth workers.

Since each message is drawn from the Living Water, it also will bring refreshment to anyone who is pouring into others — whether in the home, workplace or community. Drink your fill, and be refreshed!