Finding Rest

by Judy Douglass

My spirit is strong. But my body is weary.

It has been a full year—family, ministry, travel, writing, people, incredible opportunities and difficult events.

Though I got a little rest in August, the short time of rejuvenation was barely enough to replenish my empty energy tank.

A friend prayed that some of my commitments would be canceled, and that happened. I was sad to miss those times with special people, but I was so grateful for the gift of rest.

Sometimes, sleep seems evasive, especially when I need rest. That’s when I go to the Lord to see what He wants to say to me. Perhaps you could use some words of rest as well. Maybe these will refresh you as they do me:

Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. (Jeremiah 6:16)

He says to you and to me, as He said to Moses: “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14).

Jesus Himself reminds us: “…I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20).

The apostle John assures us, “…we set our hearts at rest in His presence” (1 John 3:19).

God says: In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…. (Isaiah 30:15)

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31)

“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.” (Matthew 8:28-29)

Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:28-31)

What about you? Do you need the rest Jesus offers? I know I do, and I encourage you to rest in Him and His Word.

Judy Douglass, Author, Speaker, Encourager. Global Director, Cru. Proud grandmother of 10. Latest book: Beyond:Create a Life You Love After 50, 60, 70, and Mor