“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Said by Jesus in Matthew 11:28, NIV)
As I was reading a devotional book the other day, I came across this quote, “Oftentimes, when we think we need a change, we only need a good night’s sleep.” (Coffee Break Devotions.) For some reason this quote really made me think about sleep (and rest) and how much that plays into our emotions and attitude.
Sleep is vital for the body and mind to heal itself. Rest too is important to give our bodies a refreshing break. And if we need sleep/rest to help our physical bodies, what do we need in order to refresh our spirit and soul?
Matthew 11:28 says if we want rest, to come to Jesus. In other words, quiet time with God is critical too. I have to admit though - I don’t always spend time with God like I want to. In fact, Saturdays are usually my “catch-up day”. I sit for hours in the quiet of the day and read Scripture, pray, and converse with God. And note that I said “quiet” of the day. It’s hard for me to focus on God if I have my computer or television on! I also try not to answer my cell phone during that time if I can help it.
I know for many of us, finding a consistent time to focus on God is hard, especially if we’re not feeling well, or have a family to “supervise”. Be assured - God does know how we are feeling and He is more concerned with the QUALITY of our time together, not the quantity, or duration! I do try to include God in my daily life as much as possible, but sometimes the restful, long hours with God don’t happen until I have a day off. And you know what? That’s okay!
If you are in need of true REST, which only comes from God, add this simple prayer to your routine: “Dear Father, please help me to rest under Your care. Give me peace and refresh my Spirit. Amen.”
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