I’m preparing for insanity as I stand on the edge of this upcoming week. We have a huge conference taking place on campus that will require all hands on deck, and I’m mentally gearing up.
However, that isn’t to say I had no time for reading homework, tea, and exploring Pilsen this morning. I bought a copy of Gone with the Wind this afternoon and just got back from an epic video game marathon with Archie the Philosopher and Co. Now, I am ready.
Taking time to rest is critically important. I realized that one of the reasons I’ve found myself so strung out at times this year is because I don’t take care to refresh myself often — it’s constantly rush, rush, rush, instead of enjoying conversation over a hot drink or taking alone time in my room. Sounds crazy, because hey, who has time to do anything like that, but I’ve noticed how much more I’m able to focus and remain energized when I take time to rest.
The concept of a Sabbath is important. Even God rested on the seventh day, and we most certainly need to establish a healthy pattern of rest. Now, this isn’t to say we should cut ourselves off from Scripture and prayer to do something mindless. Our daily time with the Lord is a part of our rest, and it is there we are spiritually quieted, filled, and encouraged.
When we find our souls empty, our hands aching from work, and our eyes wet from pain and loneliness, we must seek the Ultimate Rest. Jesus said, “Come to me, all ye heavy laden” because that’s what we are; we all carry burdens that diversion and entertainment can’t fix (Matt 11:28). There’s a balance here, because God has definitely given us wonderful things in life to enjoy, but those things can’t ultimately fill our hearts. We shouldn’t seek worldly pleasures instead of Jesus!
Love not the world, John says. Neither are we to love anything in the world, either (1 John 2:15).
Easier said than done, sir, but by God’s grace, I will walk in victory and remember these things.
Seeing where my true rest comes from is the key to satisfaction. Jesus.
