Rest Well
Shh…don't tell anyone I said this, but…I slept really well last night because Russ happened to be out of town. Yep, I said it! I sleep better when I'm “sleepin' single in a double bed” (well actually a queen size)! I do less tossing and turning, and do more of the deep sleep known to allow for restorative sleep.
You may ask, “Kathy, that is all fine and good, but I thought I was going to read an inspirational message today. What does your sleep pattern have to do with my spiritual life?”
There are several thoughts for us to consider today. First, let's look at the biblical concept of complete rest (not just physical). Jesus says in Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Jesus promises us rest from our labor and our burdens when we come to Him.
Unfortunately, sometimes we bring things to bed with us that hinder our sleep. We bring our worries and concerns, and allow our mind to be consumed with thoughts not conducive to rest. We bring our anger or our hurt feelings, and lick our wounds rather than seeking rest for our souls. When we bring something with us, to try to come to Jesus, we will not find rest. It will be a form of rest, but not the good restorative sleep like when we can leave it all behind.
Rest can be defined as: freedom from activity or labor; peace of mind or spirit; a rhythmic silence in music; something used for support; free of anxieties. When I look over that definition, and realize Jesus promises rest (not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally), I yearn for it. I long for Him to give me even more peace of mind, and freedom from activity. Curious to me that the definition also includes the musical term “rest.” It means a silence or pause. I like that. Jesus can silence the thoughts and feelings whirling around in my head. I realize I have to do my part in creating the environment for that to take place. I wonder what my wandering thoughts would do if I barked out the order: “SILENCE!” Would they shake in their little boots or would they laugh at me and say, “You don't really mean it!”
AUTHOR QUOTE: Let your thoughts and attitudes know you mean business. Drop all your bags at the door, as you run into the arms of your loving Savior.
“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light,” Matthew 11:29-30 KJV.
Today’s devotion is by Kathy Carlton Willis, wife to Russ, pastor’s wife to many, author, editor, publicist, and speaker. Kathy Carlton Willis Communications encompasses her many passions. Learn more at: http://kcwcomm.blogspot.com/ or http://www.kathycarltonwillis.com/.
