Rest...

Rest is God's idea.  After creating the heavens and the earth and everything in them, God rested. 

When I think of rest I think of sleep...fresh sheets, pillows and sweet dreams. 

Rest is to stop an activity or motion...sometimes we need a rest from our vacation...definitely need rest from work.

Rest is relief from inner turmoil...quieting the thoughts running through my head.  Fear, doubt, and worry seem to speak loudest in the dark.

When I can't rest from the day, when the events are replayed over and over in my mind so that rest is chased away like a frightened lamb, then I need to pray.  It is only when I rest in Him, sharing my day's trouble, unburdening my heart and mind that I can truly rest. 

I remember when my children were babies and toddlers, holding them close at night, rocking them, singing to them.  I could feel the tension ease from their little bodies as they gave up the fight against sleep.  I savored the feel of their warm breath on my neck, the sweet smell of baby soap from their evening bath.  Their childish jabbering interrupted by deep yawns as their eyes grew heavy.  The rhythm of their heart beating close to mine as their breathing became regular and deep.  Is there anything sweeter than to have your child fall to sleep in your arms?

I used to think if I fell to sleep while laying in bed praying then I failed God in some way.  If that were the only time I spent in prayer then yes, God deserves better than my falling asleep during our prayer time.  But when I spend my last conscious moments resting in Him, giving Him my cares, seeking the peace that only He can provide; I can fall asleep just as a child falls asleep in the safety and comfort of a parents arms.  I am His child.  He is my Father. 

Wishing you rest from this days activity...praying you find your rest in Him!  There is no better place to be.  Sweet dreams! 

 

At Holy Experience we’re talking about The Spiritual Practice of Rest.