Greetings Willowdale Family,
Recently, I came across an article in Ministry Magazine (October 2015) that explored the power of rest. Rest is not only a recurring theme throughout the biblical narrative, but it is also a gift from God that nourishes us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. More than a physical necessity, rest is a spiritual discipline—an act of trust in God’s provision and sovereignty.
With the many demands pressing in on us, we often feel guilty for pausing, as though taking time to rest is selfish. Yet, Jesus Himself extends a gracious invitation: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Sometimes we need this reminder, even with permission, to stop striving and allow our souls to be renewed.
The Biblical Foundation of Rest
Rest begins in creation. Genesis 2:2-3 tells us that God Himself rested on the seventh day and blessed it as holy. This establishes a divine pattern: rest is woven into the very order of creation. The Fourth Commandment further emphasizes this principle: “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy… the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God” (Exodus 20:8-10). The Sabbath is not merely a break from work but a sacred time to reconnect with God as Creator and Redeemer.
Through the prophet Isaiah, God reminds His people: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength” (Isaiah 30:15). Yet how often do we overlook this in our busy, fast-paced culture? Society glorifies constant activity, but God calls us to find strength in stillness. When we ignore His invitation, we risk spiritual depletion and pursuing plans that are not His (Isaiah 30:1). Even Jesus modelled the balance of work and rest. Despite the demands of His mission, He frequently withdrew to quiet places for prayer and renewal. In Mark 6:31, He urged His disciples, “Come with Me… to a quiet place and get some rest.” This was not a suggestion but a necessary rhythm for sustaining ministry. True effectiveness comes not from overexertion, but from resting in God and serving out of His strength.
Practical Ways to Embrace Rest
- Establish Boundaries – It is advisable to allocate a minimum of one day per week to disengage from professional obligations and technological distractions. This designated period should be utilized for spiritual practices, introspection, and restorative pursuits, contributing to overall well-being and mental health.
- Prioritize Prayer – Create intentional moments of stillness to seek God’s presence and listen for His guidance. Prayer serves as a vital conduit for fostering intimacy with Christ, facilitating access to a profound peace that transcends human comprehension. It serves as a key mechanism in the engagement with spiritual warfare and in the processes of emotional healing and heart transformation. Consequently, it is essential to prioritize prayer as a fundamental component of our spiritual practices. This emphasis on prayer not only underscores its significance in fostering a deeper spiritual connection with God but also highlights its potential role in enhancing overall emotional and psychological well-being.
- Engage in Family Life – Engaging in shared meals, participating in social outings, or partaking in collaborative games can significantly enhance interpersonal relationships and reinforce social bonds. These activities promote relational vitality and contribute to the overall enrichment of social connections.
- Pursue Joyful Interests – Engaging in activities such as reading, gardening, or other personal interests is essential for enhancing individual well-being. It is essential to grant oneself the freedom to take pleasure in these fundamental and uncomplicated life experiences. Such acts of enjoyment significantly contribute to one’s overall quality of life and mental well-being.
Conclusion
In our enthusiasm to serve, we must remember that rest is both a command and a blessing. A well-rested leader or disciple is more effective, compassionate, and inspired. Rest enables us to minister from a place of abundance rather than exhaustion.
So, take the time to pause. Recharge and return renewed to fulfill the mission of the Kingdom. Rest reflects the very heart of God, was exemplified by Jesus, and is a vital discipline for every believer. By relying less on our own strength, we may discover that, through Christ, we are empowered to give so much more. Have a blessed Sabbath!
With love and prayer,
Dr. Pastor Evadne Henry