In our busy, American culture I find that rest is so overlooked!
So often we go, go, go until we end up in complete burnout and are dealing with frustration, discouragement and an over-worked body.
I love that the Bible has so much to say about rest. Not only is rest helpful for our physical bodies, it’s major for our mental, emotional and spiritual health.
To encourage you to carve some more life-giving and restful time into your routine, I want to share a couple of my favorite passages on rest.
An Invitation to Rest
Jesus invites his disciples to find a peaceful place and rest.
And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
– Mark 6:31 (ESV)
When was the last time you escaped the crowds and the busy-ness of life to spend some time in nature?
This is something Jesus modeled for us and taught His disciples to do. Let’s learn to retreat and rest when we need it most. Maybe it’s a fun camping trip, a lovely beach walk or some time reading a book on your porch. The options are endless!
Rest That is Given
God provides rest from our labor and burdens.
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
– Matthew 11:28 (ESV)
There have been many times in my life where I remember this verse and come to God in prayer with all the tough situations, confusion and worries that I have. When I feel tired from my responsibilities in motherhood, in work, or with relationships, He is so kind and generous to support me and give me renewed energy.
Wait in Silence
I can rest because my hope is from God.
For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence,
for my hope is from him.
– Psalm 62:5 (ESV)
When David was facing an enemy who was out to kill him, he wrote this psalm speaking to his soul and reminding himself where he puts his hope. Is it in his own strength or cleverness? No. Is it in his own army or defense? No. He has hope that God will overthrow his enemy. He clings to the promises of God and holds God to His word. And he waits. In silence. Patiently. Expectantly. With confident hope.
In my life, I have found it helpful at times when fear creeps in to remind myself – like David did – that my hope is from God, that He is true to His word, and that He is greater than any problem or enemy I face.
While it can be hard to say no to things or set time aside to rest, it is so worth it.
I’m cheering you on to take unnecessary things off your plate, simplify your life and prioritize opportunities to rest and restore!
