For four years, my school holidays were marked by dutiful service — showing up, giving my time, energy, and heart without fail. This week was different. For the first time since starting my Elijah House journey, I did not serve at a school during the break.
A few weeks ago, I felt the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit inviting me into something new — a tender season of healing. He began unravelling the old “dutiful daughter” patterns within me, showing me how much of my striving came from wanting to please rather than resting in His love.
At first, I wrestled. Guilt crept in after messaging Sandee, almost as if stepping back meant letting the team down. I missed the rhythm of Monday mornings, the familiar drive to Pakuranga. A flicker of FOMO visited me, reminding me of the moments I wasn’t part of. Yet by Tuesday, something had shifted. Apart from praying for the team throughout the day, I felt peace settling in like a gentle covering.
I am beginning to learn that “no” is a full sentence. Boundaries are not walls of selfishness, but gates of wisdom that protect the heart. Rest is not absence, it is presence with God — and from that place of presence, my “yes” will one day flow again, not from duty but from love.
📖 "Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28 (NKJV)
💡Reflection:
Where in my life have I been serving out of duty rather than love? 🤔
What old expectations is God inviting me to release? 🤔
How can I practise healthy boundaries without guilt, knowing Jesus calls me into His rest? 🤔
🙏 Closing Prayer:
Father God,
thank You for teaching me that Your love is not earned through duty but received in rest. Thank You for showing me that boundaries are not walls of selfishness but gates of wisdom that guard my heart.
I release the guilt of saying “no” and choose instead to trust the freedom of Your “yes.” May my serving flow not from striving but from love, not from obligation but from delight in You.
Holy Spirit, continue to unravel the old patterns and weave in Your truth. Teach me to walk in rhythm with grace, resting in Your presence and rising only when You lead.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen. ✨
Thursday, 25 September 2025
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