Tuesday, June 13, 2023

I, like many others, am a self-starter in every area of my life, whether that be school, work, or relationships. Society has taught us to prioritize ambition and success over everything else. Many of us work long hours during the week and, yet, still feel we must be “productive” during our time off. Otherwise, the day is wasted. Personally, I become restless and anxious during my free time because, even from a young age, I was taught that resting was lazy or a waste of time.

However, I have recently learned that rest is productive and essential to our well-being—it clears our minds and rejuvenates our bodies. Without rest, we would suffer physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is no surprise then that a lack of rest can also harm us spiritually because, in this depleted state, we tend to neglect what is really important to us. I find that when I forget to rest, my priorities quickly become skewed, and I wrongly prioritize productivity over everything else. I fail to read my Bible, pray, or even attend church. This is dangerous and can negatively impact our relationship with Jesus.

When God created the earth, he created it in seven days. It is easy to focus on the first six days of creation while forgetting the importance of the seventh day. In the first six days, God spoke into existence all of creation—the creation of the universe, animals, humans, and everything else. However, Scripture also includes the seventh day—when God rested after all the work he had done. If rest is not important, then what would be the significance of including it in the very beginning of the Bible?

Genesis 2:2-3
²“On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. ³And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation.”

The purpose of rest is to help us clear our minds and redirect our thoughts to what is important. It gives us the desperately needed opportunity to put aside all distractions and give our full attention to God. Resting encourages us to be still and sit with God, becoming closer to him through Scripture and prayer. It is in the quiet that we truly can hear God speak to our hearts. While resting, we can be mindful and marvel at the goodness of God and his wonderful creation.

Psalm 46:10
“Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”

Questions:
What is your favorite way to rest and spend time with God?

How can you remember to make time for rest each week?

Next Steps:
Join a Group for the summer semester to take time during the week to focus on connecting with others and connecting with God, leaving all distractions aside.

Take 10 minutes each day to reorient your thoughts to God, listening to what he is putting on your heart.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thanks for giving us the gift of rest despite the busyness and chaos of everyday life. Help us to remember to set aside time each week to intentionally rest, and to redirect our focus to you during this time. Allow us to become mindful while resting, and give us the strength to face each day rested and ready to do your will. Thank you for giving us this perfect opportunity to connect with you each day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Ecclesiastes 9:17
“Better to hear the quiet words of a wise person than the shouts of a foolish king.”