You Can’t Thrive Without This Rhythm In Your Life

R E S T

A verse that continually amazes me is Mark 6:31 where Jesus says, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

Right before it, Mark comments how there were so many people coming and going as the disciples were teaching and healing that they didn’t even have time to eat!

Have you ever been so busy you forgot to eat?

With major writing deadlines, I’ve certainly pulled a few 10 hour work days with minimal breaks to get the blood flowing and eat and socialize, dare I say, even shower?

Those rhythms are not sustainable long term, and praise God, He shows us a better way.

Even outside of work, every day life can feel overwhelming at times with never-ending demands.

Sometimes it feels hard to find periods of rest.

Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s not profitable.

If we want to live a fulfilling, sustainable life, we must stay connected to the Giver of Life.

We can work countless hours and always burn the midnight oil, but productivity will eventually wane. And sooner or later we will begin to realize we’ve turned into a producer rather than a person who creates.

Take time to get away.

To rest.

To spend with Jesus.

Put the phone down. Turn off the computer. Get outside and lift your gaze.

If you’re still unsure, here’s your encouragement.

One weekend, my college friend and I booked an AirBnb and spent time laughing, reading, enjoying the outdoors, savoring food, being honest and vulnerable about life, and championing one another toward Christ-likeness.

The week before and after this short trip was filled to the brim.

But that in-between period made all the difference in keeping my gaze fixed on what mattered.

I’m so thankful the Lord gives us rest and invites us to partake even in the busyness of life.

After the disciples spent time resting, they were immediately surrounded by another swarm of people and tasks to do. But Jesus showed them the beauty of work that still had to be done and displayed compassion and fed the five thousand.

But there’s a key difference in taking time to rest.

The period away from the chaos refreshes us to step back into our lives and work from a place of abundance instead of scarcity.

The responsibilities in life are a gift, because it’s not about us. It’s about serving, loving, and pointing people to God.

Rest gives us time to refresh and reset so we can remain focused on what matters in the bigger picture of life so we can get back to working for the Lord.

Whatever you’re walking into the week feeling, take a moment to rest. Get away with your Father and be refreshed.

For His Glory,
Laura