“Relax…“
If I had a dime for the amount of times I’ve heard those words in my life, I’d be a billionare.
I’m the type of person that has always struggled with being still. I’m a “go-getter“: always running around from one place to the next, taking extra shifts at work or responsibilities at church, starting new things, and making more commitments. Ever since I’ve graduated from school, but especially since I moved out on my own, I’ve barely stopped.
And that’s a big problem…
Why Rest is Important
A final thought is that rest is not just a need – it’s a blessing. Resting not only allows our body and mind to unwind, but also gives us the opportunity to put all else aside and focus on what is most important. It’s perfectly okay to rest by watching a movie or browsing through a magazine. However, if you love God and what to become more like Him, shouldn’t that be reflected in how you rest? Your resting should often include an emphasis on meditating on God and the Gospel, pursuing holiness, and encouraging others in the faith. The time we have to rest is an immeasurable blessing because it allows us ways we can be prepared – both physically and spiritually – for the next thing.
Take Time to Rest
Maybe resting means reading through a book on biblical theology, or listening to a sermon or podcast. It could be journaling your day and how God is working. Perhaps it’s taking a nap after work with gentle music flowing in the background. It might be something as crazy as eating pizza at the beach, hearing the roaring waves under the twinkling of the stars while medidating on God’s amazing handiwork (because let me tell you, it’s pretty refreshing and awe-inspiring) – or it may be something as mundane as getting to bed at a decent hour so you’re emotionally ready for work the next day.
Whatever way you do it, give your body the break it needs. As a Christian, your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). You don’t just honour God with your body by abstaining from harmful substances or immorality, but also by providing your body and mind with the necessities to perform well, so that you can do good deeds to glorify your Saviour.
So stop: pause for a moment and simply breathe. Make time in your life for necessary rest.
You will not regret it.
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