One Community Church presents a devotional that was written by one of its partners each week. This week’s reflection was written by Kizzy Wilkins.The Word:
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (NASB)
The Story:
I recently visited a friend that has been battling depression. She was advised by her doctor to set some boundaries in her life because she was simply doing too much. Her lifestyle had completely drained her. It’s astounding how true this is for many of us. We go through our lives on cruise control – never slowing down to take some time to just rest. What’s so amazing is that God himself has given us permission to rest, and He actually encourages do so. He knows that some of us become so consumed with life, work, and even ministry that we neglect caring for our bodies properly. Taking time to rest in the Lord will provide the spiritual, physical, and mental restoration we need.
The Reflection:
Are our current lifestyles causing us to constantly feel exhausted? What steps are we consistently taking to spend time finding rest in Jesus? Consider how taking time for rest will allow us to grow in our relationships with God.
The Application:
One definition of rest is mental or spiritual calm. A body is at rest when it ceases to move. The mind is at rest when it ceases to be disturbed. This week, let us ask for the Lord’s guidance in committing to living in a way that provides time for spiritual, mental, and physical rest.
The Prayer:
Father, help us to seek and find rest for our bodies and souls in You. Lead us to rely on your strength and not our own. Even when we grow weary, You are the Everlasting God! Amen.
