Time for rest

Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

We have to learn to be still and know God, or there is no time to dream dreams, think of how to create them, and be present in the moment. We need perspective! It refreshes our spirits, souls, and bodies when we rest in God’s presence. It’s always hard for me to put the to-do list aside and listen, but it’s so rewarding!

One of the biggest keys to keeping your joy is to establish and protect your day off every single week. No “quick” email breaks, business calls, or meetings—as hard as that may sound. God created you for a day of rest.

When Satan realized he couldn’t tempt Jesus, the Bible says he left him to wait for an opportune time. Satan is always looking for an opportunity to tempt us—and he usually strikes when we’re worn out. When we don’t take time to rest, we set ourselves up for temptation!

Often the biggest areas where we miss it are the easiest and simplest ones to do. That’s because we expect them to fall into place naturally, but practicing the habit of rest every week takes effort. We have to be intentional about unplugging from the stress of our day-to-day and finding rest in God’s presence.

Practice self-love and you’ll reap the benefits of a happier, healthier you, as well as happier, healthier relationships!

Dear Lord, help us to take the time to rest. Help us to learn to put things on hold and just stop and talk and listen to You. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.