There is a wonderful verse in the book of Psalms (55:6). It says, “Oh that I had wings like a dove for then I would fly away and be at rest.”
Have you ever had a day like that when you just wanted to fly away and be at rest? Those are the days when it seems like nothing is going right and it would just be really good if you could take off and go somewhere else, because we always think somewhere else has got to be just a little more restful, and just a little more peaceful than where we are.
Well, you know what? The Lord Jesus had something to say about that. In fact, Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come unto Me, all you 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.”
I love that promise in verse 28, “Come unto me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He doesn’t say, “I might,” or “maybe,” or “if you’re good enough,” or “if you ask nicely enough.” He says, “Come, I will give you rest.”
It’s not uncommon for people to be unclear about how they can go to the Lord. we all need rest at times, but they may be unsure about what they can do to go to the Lord.
The answer is surprisingly simple. All we need to do to receive God’s promise of rest is to bring ourselves before Him. And since He is omnipresent, there aren’t any barriers. When you are physically tired, rest and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. Take time to do nothing other than to give your body some rest.
Mental rest is also needed from time to time in this stressful world in which we live. To get mental rest you need to be able to re-direct your attention from work, relationships, or whatever is the source of your stress and anxiety. Think about pleasant things that help you to relax, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Emotionally, focus on the good times. Take time to laugh. Just let out a big, hearty laugh if nothing else. Spiritually, come before the Lord in prayer. Talk to Him. Don’t ever be afraid to tell Him what is on your heart and mind. He knows it anyway.
When you are in need of rest, go before God in prayer and praise. Admire His greatness and the things He has done. Sing songs to praise Him. Read and meditate on His Word. Simply put your focus on Him rather than the things in your life that are causing stress and anxiety. He promises to give you the rest you need, and He never breaks a promise.
Dr. Ann Shorb is a counselor, writer, and speaker. She is the founder of Christian Counseling … Educational Services in Hanover, PA. Her website includes tons of resources, like devotionals, articles, hymn lyrics, wallpaper, brochures, tracts, and puppet skits.
