Monday, September 23, 2024

Hurry demands perfection. It dismisses the need for growth and creates conflicts. It prevents us from making space for God’s presence, where true peace is found.

Jesus invites us to slow down and rest our souls. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” This isn’t just a physical rest, but a deep, soul-soothing rest that comes from being in his presence.

Consider this: Is it better to constantly push ourselves until we’re completely drained or to pause regularly and rest to prevent burnout before it takes a toll? We all know the answer. 

Far too often, we fall into the trap of believing that pushing through exhaustion is a sign of strength. The truth is that exhaustion weakens us. It affects our bodies, minds, hearts, and relationships. As the bottom line reminds us: You need to rest yourself before you wreck yourself, and your relationships. When we fail to rest, we damage the very connections that matter most—our relationship with God, others, and even ourselves.

Jesus understood the importance of rest. Throughout the Gospels, we see him actively pursuing rest after periods of intense work. In fact, on at least nine different occasions, Jesus removed himself from the pressures of the world around him to pray, rest, and reconnect with his Father. Whether it was after healing crowds, teaching, or facing challenging situations, Jesus withdrew to a quiet place to recharge and remind himself of his purpose. 

If the Son of God needed time away from the noise and pressures of this world, how much more do we?

Here’s an acronym I created to help you remember to PAUSE and REST:

Practice stillness.

Actively listen.

Unwind your mind.

Surrender your burdens.

Enjoy God’s grace.

&

Release control.

Embrace his presence.

Slow your pace.

Trust God’s plan. 

Questions: 
What is one burden you need to release to God today?

How can you incorporate small moments of rest into your daily routine this week?

Next Steps: 
This week, set aside 15 minutes each day to intentionally rest in God’s presence. Find a quiet spot, turn off distractions, and practice stillness. Start by reading Matthew 11:28, then spend a few moments in silence, reflecting on God’s invitation to give him your burdens. As you sit with him, release any anxieties, worries, or pressures you are carrying, and allow his peace to fill your heart.

Prayer: 
Heavenly Father, in the quiet of this moment, help me to practice stillness before you. Calm my heart and mind, allowing me to actively listen for your voice, free from distraction. As I seek you, teach me to unwind my mind from the worries and stresses of life, resting fully in your peace. I choose to surrender my burdens to you, knowing that you care for me and are more than able to carry what I cannot.

Thank you for the gift of your love and presence. May I always enjoy your grace and remember that I don’t need to strive for perfection. I release control of all things, knowing you are sovereign. Lord, help me to embrace your presence, feeling your nearness in every moment.

Guide me to slow my pace and live in step with your will, not the hurried demands of the world. And most of all, I trust your plan, Father. In every season, I know that your way is good, and I rest in your perfect timing.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Ephesians 3:16-17
¹⁶ I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. ¹⁷ Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.

This post was written by Monique Myers, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.