CHOOSING REST

Rest is not a reward for finishing everything; it’s part of God’s rhythm for your life.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Message:
There’s always more to do, more messages to reply to, more goals to achieve, more responsibilities waiting. Rest can feel like weakness or laziness in a world that celebrates constant hustle.

But Jesus Himself invites us to rest. Not just to stop working, but to lay down the burden of striving to prove ourselves, to hold it all together, to do more just to feel worthy. His rest is not merely physical; it’s soul rest.

There was a weekend when I turned off my phone, sat with a journal, and just let myself be still. At first, it felt uncomfortable. But slowly, my heart started to quiet down. I could hear God’s voice again. I could feel my shoulders loosen. I could breathe.

Restoration is not possible without rest. When we pause, we give God space to restore what the world has drained out of us.

I want to encourage you to choose rest this week, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Let God remind you that you are loved, not for what you produce, but for who you are. Rest is not a reward for finishing everything; it’s part of God’s rhythm for your life.

Exercise:
Pick one evening this week to rest intentionally, no phone, no to-do list, no work. Light a candle, breathe deeply, and let yourself enjoy the quiet.

Prayer:
Jesus, teach me to rest. Quiet my anxious thoughts and help me receive the restoration You are offering me today. Amen.