Rest

Today I want to talk about rest. I thought rest and solitude were similar things, but they aren’t. The meaning of rest is peace, ease, or refreshment. Rest enables our bodies to function properly. Mentally, it allows us to recharge and rejuvenate so we can think clearly and make good decisions. Spiritually, rest gives us time to connect with God and grow in our faith. Rest can look different for everybody. Some may take a nap, read the bible, pray and worship, spend time with friends and family, or be out in nature enjoying the trees God created. The world we live in is always moving, at least for me, I'm not sure about you. I find rest hard. I also fidget a lot as well, especially if I'm anxious about something or being in an environment that's loud and crowded. God wants us to rest. God even commands a day of rest which the bible calls the Sabbath. God even took a rest after he created everything.  

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Matthew 11:28

Jesus wants us to give him our burdens so he will give us rest. Jesus doesn't want us to carry anything anymore. He did that on the cross. 

“And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Exodus 33:14

That's saying the presence of the Lord is with you always, he will give us rest.  Being in his presence gives us rest. He can speak to us always in His presence or make the room you are in feel so peaceful. He's always there. 

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

Psalm 4:8

We can sleep knowing God will keep us safe at night, God doesn't sleep.  

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

Psalm 46:10

We can be still and wait on the Lord because he is God.  We can experience true rest when we spend time in God's presence praying or reflecting on his Word. God wants to give us rest; he wants us to have peace in his presence. Jesus has many names, Prince of Peace being one of them. This meaning Jesus will give us peace. He is the Prince of Peace.

Prayer

Lord, thank you that we can find rest in your presence. I pray for whoever is reading this, Lord, that you help them find rest in the storm and that you would calm their storm. Calm the storms in our lives, Lord. Thank you that we can give you anxieties and burdens. Your Word says you will give us rest.  Thank you Lord that we can sleep knowing you're watching over us and keeping us safe. Help us understand what rest is and how we are able to find rest in you.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen