Why rest?
Last week I shared this post with you about rest. What is rest? And why do we need it?
I’m not talking about physical rest, although we all do need that from time to time just like the tired bear pictured above. I’m referring to spiritual and emotional rest—something necessary if we are to keep from being pulled down by things that are going on around us.
I am a naturally happy and joyful person. I tend to smile a lot, which is why I was given the nickname “Smiley” years ago by some co-workers. But in an effort to keep it real here, I have to be honest with you. For the past month or so I have been feeling such a heavy heart when I think of and pray for the people in my life (and beyond) who are hurting so much and in so many ways.
I absolutely trust that God is my All in All and that because He is the great I AM, He supplies everything I need on a daily—often hourly, and sometimes minute-by-minute—basis.
His love for me in spite of myself always amazes me.
So why have I been feeling almost depressed about so many different things happening in my life and in the lives of friends and family? How can I feel like this if I have faith and trust in God?
I’m human, Beloved, and as a frail human, my mind and heart are vulnerable. Frustration, confusion and depression happen… and I’m here to say that they can happen to any of us.
But here’s the thing: we can let these things pull us under or we can remember that God is not only still in charge and has everything under control, but that He already knows how each situation will turn out!
I’ll share more with you next time, but for now join me in memorizing these verses that my sweet daughter has been praying for me about this:
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. —Romans 8:28
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. —Romans 12:12
Posted on November 13, 2012, in All in All, I AM, rest and tagged All in All, believe, blessed, deeper meaning, faith, God, heart, I AM, Jesus, joy, Lord, rest, thankful. Bookmark the permalink. 4 Comments.
I love this post, Anna. I’m a naturally joyful person too, but it’s hard not to feel sucked under by all the troubling things in the world.
I love that you used Rom 8:28. My parents drilled that verse into my brain my entire life, and I’m so grateful they did. It’s my fall-back verse along with many others.
I’ve discovered God speaking to me through 2 Corinthians lately. A LOT. This one has been ringing in my ears the past week:
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Cor 9:8
Amen! Praying for you today & hope you’re feeling strong
Thanks, Susan. I hate to say that today isn’t going so well so thank you for your prayers. I think it’s time for me to go back to bed!
Anna, great post. You surely do have a compassionate heart, this I know. Remember, it was Jesus who took our sorrows and sins, so you too must lay these agonizings at His feet. Easier said than done, isn’t it? I surely can relate and am preaching to myself!
Donna, you know me sooo well so you know I’ve already laid all of this at the Throne of Grace. However, I have also felt that Nudge to share my journey here. Love you!