My husband and I were blessed to be able to get a new bed this month. It has been ten years since our last purchase. As we have adjusted to the new one I have been amazed at the feeling of waking up clear minded and well rested after the kind of night’s sleep I have not enjoyed for a long time. The experience made me think about the idea of getting good spiritual rest. Let your mind rest on these two passages in this short blog.
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) Jesus’ words in this context promised peace to the crowds who followed him in turbulent religious and political times and they hold the same promise for us today. As we are pulled in many directions in our lives, we must remember to turn again to Jesus for true peace and rest.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths or righteousness for his names sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23)
David’s words in this scripture are refreshing like a breeze on a spring day. David proved the faithfulness of God through many experiences in his life, from his years as a shepherd through his old age. His walk with God was not always as peaceful as the imagery in this Psalm, but the Lord never failed him. As we go through the ups and downs of our lives we can achieve rest as we fully trust in God’s presence and perfect care, providing just what we need at just the right time.
I hope these two short passages will encourage you to dig into your Bible.