I don’t think I’m the only one who has too much to do and never enough time. Indeed, we are a generation of busy people—we’re often working hard, but hardly living.
That was evident some time ago when I was so exhausted that I didn’t realize I was starting to put my spaghetti leftovers in the kitchen cupboard instead of the refrigerator where they belonged.
Of course, storing Italian food in the wrong place was just a symptom of a larger problem.
Most nights I was up late working, folding laundry, or doing “one more thing” before bed, wondering why the days were so long and the nights so short. I was constantly tired, but didn’t take the time to get enough rest.
Sadly, “rest” is often at the bottom of our priority list.
But, why?
We all have our reasons. Some people stay continually busy in order to avoid pain and disappointment. Others live a life of constant motion because they’re trying to please others or keep up appearances.
Certainly, there are busy seasons in life, like an accountant goes through during tax time. But for some, being busy all the time seems to be a badge of honor.
There is a better way to find a better life, but sometimes false beliefs keep us stuck on a hamster wheel of perpetual motion. Being driven is one thing; being bound to guilt, condemnation, perfectionism, or people pleasing is bondage.
Unknowingly, we are living a lie.
But, if we address some of the lies and release them, then physical rest and inner peace—soul rest—can replace worry and fear, and our circumstances can begin to change.
Read each of these lies listed below, and talk to God in your prayer time about what’s keeping you from getting the rest you need.
• LIE: I can do everything, and do it all on my own. This person mistakenly believes she has to do everything for everyone and do it all by herself. Some may call her a martyr; others may call her a control freak. The truth is we are sorely deceived when we think we are a “Junior Jesus.” We can’t save the world; Christ already did that for us. It’s the ultimate deception when we think we are like God or we are God. (Genesis 3:5)
• LIE: I feel guilty when I rest. I used to think rest was a luxury for a privileged few. There was a time in my life when I was short on funds and working three jobs just to stay afloat. I was continually tired. But I kept going. Then I learned that rest was God’s idea! (Genesis 2:1-3)
• LIE: I don’t deserve to rest. You don’t have to earn a good rest by doing too much. That’s a “slave driver” mentality, and it’s not from God. Thoughts like that are from the enemy (Satan) who is out to destroy you. The truth is, when you come to know Christ you are set free (John 8:36). He has given you a right to rest.
• LIE: Rest is a waste of time. In reality, taking time to renew your weary self is time well spent. It’s an investment that will pay off physically, mentally, emotionally, and relationally because you will be a better person when you stop periodically to get refreshed. Ultimately, taking a rest helps you get the job done more effectively.
• LIE: If I rest, I won’t get it all done. That thought goes back to the fundamental question of “Whose agenda you are following?” Your way or God’s way? A major shift happens when we begin to realize that life is about God’s plan, His story. We live for God, not for ourselves. He will enable us to get done what He wants accomplished each day when we are surrendered and willing.
Getting enough rest is essential for many reasons. First, we need rest, both physically and emotionally. It’s vital to life and good health. Without enough sleep we may get cranky and feel tired. Or, get sick.
Sadly, we may become so preoccupied with trying to gain more in life that we fail to realize what is lost in the process. In the demanding pace of life we may lose perspective or mess up our priorities. We lose peace of mind, and connection with God and others. Our health and relationships suffer. In our efforts to be efficient, we may not always be effective.
Often, we lose heart.
Perhaps we don’t value rest because our perception is skewed by a culture that praises busyness and devalues silence, stillness, and reflection.
Instead, rest brings margin to your life, spaces that allow you to replenish and restore beauty, balance, and creativity. Without it, life is an endless cycle of work, chores and errands. And that’s not what God intended. Joy, peace, fun and play are essential parts of life, too.
Rest is trusting God. You were never meant to do life all on your own, or carry the weight of the world like boulders in a backpack. When you release your worries to God, you’re saying that you trust Him. Instead of feeling anxious, you can rely on the fact that God will take care of all your needs.
Rest is God’s idea. God gives you permission to rest. In fact, it was His idea from the beginning. In the first book of the Bible, Genesis, we learn that God created the heavens and earth “all in their vast array.”
Imagine the sheer delight of God as master artist and architect, forming star-studded galaxies, planets that spin, and gravity to tether us to earth. After He created all that, He rested (whatever that looks like for God), and gave us an example to follow in our own lives.
Jesus understood the importance of rest. He had three years, only a short time, to accomplish His mission, yet he often left the crowds to get away and pray. He invites us to lay down our burdens and find real rest in Him:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Jesus, in Matthew 11:28-30 NIV)
Your days may be full, but your heart doesn’t have to be empty or feel anxious.
Release your cares to God, connect with Him in your prayer times, and allow Him to refresh and replenish you.
When you’re well-rested, you’re better equipped to serve God and others. And enjoy the freedom, peace, and power that are yours through your relationship with the Lord.
“Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from him.”
Psalm 62:5
Jackie M. Johnson is an author and blogger who writes inspiring content on growing a better life, the power of prayer, and encouragement for singles. Jackie has a heart to encourage single adults of all ages, and she has led numerous small groups and Bible studies for singles. Her books include the breakup recovery guide, When Love Ends and the Ice Cream Carton Is Empty, Power Prayers for Women, and Praying with Power When Life Gets Tough. Connect with Jackie at JackieJohnsonCreative.com.
