Pause. Take a deep breath.
We live in a world that glorifies relentless exertions, even to the purpose of exhaustion. Productivity is usually equated with value, and taking a break can feel like failure. Even as Christians, we sometimes struggle with this mindset. But today, I need to remind you why rest isn’t just necessary – it’s sacred.
What Is Rest?
The word rest, based on the Oxford English Dictionary, carries two essential ideas: “to stop” and “to rely on.”
Rest isn’t simply stopping work; it’s also an act of trust.
God Created Rest for Us
From the very starting, God established the rhythm of rest. After six days of creation, He rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2). He didn’t do that because He was weary but to set an example for us. He blessed and sanctified at the present time, calling it the Sabbath (Genesis 2:3).
As His children, we’re called to follow in His footsteps. We should take a break from the work that we now have been blessed with to get better our strength.
Hebrews 4:9-10 reminds us, “There stays, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God, for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from His.”
If the Almighty Creator of the universe took time to rest, why can we feel guilty for doing the identical?
Rest Renews Us Spiritually
Rest is greater than just physical recovery; it’s a time of spiritual renewal. It allows us to be refilled and strengthened in our faith.
By stepping back, we let go of the worldly notion that every little thing relies on our efforts. Rest reminds us that God is on top of things and that we’re utterly depending on Him.
As Psalm 46:10 declares, “Be still, and know that I’m God; I will probably be exalted among the many nations, I will probably be exalted within the earth.”
Jesus Offers Us True Rest
We all wrestle with inner struggles – anxiety, stress, loneliness, and even addictions. Yet, Jesus offers us a rest that’s everlasting, one which brings true peace.
In Matthew 11:28-30, He invites us, saying, “Come to me, all you who’re weary and burdened, and I will provide you with rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I’m gentle and humble in heart, and you can find rest to your souls. For my yoke is straightforward and my burden is light.”
Rest in God’s Love
This discussion about rest jogs my memory of George Herbert’s poem, “The Pulley”. In the poem, God blesses mankind with strength, beauty, wisdom, honour, and pleasure. Yet, He withholds one thing – rest – knowing that without it, humanity would seek fulfilment in creation somewhat than within the Creator.
This poetic insight echoes what King David declares in Psalm 62:1, “Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him.”
Rest isn’t laziness. Rest is obedience. Rest is renewal. Rest is trust.
When we elect to stop striving and rely on God, we align ourselves with His perfect design. We embrace the peace, strength, and luxury He longs to provide us.
So today, take a deep breath. Pause. And rest in Him.
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