An Invitation
In our fast-paced world, where the demands of daily life can feel overwhelming, the concept of rest often feels like a distant dream. We live in a culture that glorifies busyness and productivity, often at the expense of our well-being. But as believers, we’re called to live differently. Rest is not just a luxury; it’s a divine invitation.
God, in His infinite wisdom, created rest as a fundamental part of our lives. From the very beginning, after creating the world, He rested on the seventh day, setting an example for us — Genesis 2:2-3. Rest is woven into the fabric of creation, a rhythm that brings balance and restoration. It’s a time to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect with our Creator.
What is Rest
Rest is more than just physical relaxation. It’s a state of the soul, a deep inner peace that comes from trusting God with our burdens. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus extends a beautiful invitation to all who are weary and heavy-laden. He doesn’t just offer a break from work but a profound rest that refreshes the soul. This rest is found in Him alone, where we lay down our worries and trust in His perfect plan.
Why We Resist Rest
Despite the clear benefits, many of us struggle to truly rest. We worry about unfinished tasks, feel guilty for taking time off, or fear that slowing down might cause us to fall behind. Yet, these are the very things that Jesus invites us to surrender to Him. Our value isn’t measured by how much we accomplish but by who we are in Christ.
Rest requires trust—a trust that God is in control and that He can handle everything without our constant striving. When we rest, we acknowledge that He is sovereign over our lives. It’s an act of faith, a declaration that God’s provision is enough.
Embracing Rest in Your Life
So how can we embrace this divine rest in our daily lives?
Prioritize Being in God’s PresenceSet aside daily quiet time to disconnect from work and connect with God. This time is sacred, meant for worship, reflection, and renewal. Read His Word, pray, and listen to what He is saying to you, obey and act. Let these moments anchor your day in peace.
- Tip for Daily Quiet Time: If you’re a mom or live with others, a good rule of thumb is to try getting up before everyone else in the house. Set aside time in the early morning for your devotion. Your devotion can include meditation, Bible reading (a verse a day keeps the stress away, lol), talking with God, and finishing with prayer
Release Control: Trust God with the things that weigh you down. Surrender your worries, knowing that He cares for you and is working all things together for your good.
- Tip for Daily Quiet Time: I find that my struggle of releasing control happens most throughout my day-to-day routine. I am an on-the-go person and a “I will make this happen by any means necessary” type of person (God has been working on me and with me in that area). I set aside time at night after the house goes to bed to meditate and check in with God. During this time, I journal and reflect on questions such as:
- What could I have done differently today?
- What areas of my day did not bring You glory?
- Is there anything You said to me today that I missed?
Nourish Your Soul: Engage in activities that refresh you—whether it’s spending time in nature, enjoying a hobby, or simply being still. Allow yourself to enjoy the life God has given you.
Protect Your Rest: Not everything Is for you and not everyone is for you and we have to be okay with that. The scripture say “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23 (NIV). Maintaining this peace requires intentionality.
If we allow the wrong influences into our lives—whether they’re toxic relationships, unhealthy environments, or activities that drain our energy—our peace can quickly be compromised. (for more on this subject, check out my free 10 day devotion: Protect your peace”
Final Thoughts
Rest is a beautiful gift from God, one that we often overlook in the hustle and bustle of life. One that we think can only be achieve through expensive vacations. You ever heard the saying “I’ll rest when I die?” well that invitation is for now, not later. We have to unlearn the world’s way of living and ask God to teach us how to live — Psalm 27: 11. When we accept His invitation to rest, we find a deeper connection with Him and a renewal of our spirit. Let’s embrace this gift, trusting that in God’s rest, we find the strength to carry on. As we rest in Him, we are reminded that He is our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in times of need.
so friend, take a moment today to breathe deeply, release your burdens to the Lord, and rest in His loving arms. The world will keep spinning, but your soul will be refreshed, ready to face whatever comes next with His peace that surpasses all understanding.
