A Rest-full Soul

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Matthew 11:28-29

But, Lord, when will I sleep? 

These were my words to God after being asked to take a position in a Bible study that seemed overwhelming and impossible. Our youngest daughter was four months old, and sleep was already something I might or might not have the privilege of enjoying. Was this God’s plan? I prayed and believed it was.

A week of training ended with an interview by the director of the organization. After the interview, the director handed me a card with a verse she had selected for me: The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14). And He did! For the seventeen years I stayed in that position, God enabled and equipped me to do His work and provided the physical rest I needed. 

Physical rest is essential, but Jesus’ words in Matthew refer to a much greater rest. Jesus offers a rest for our souls. …for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his (Hebrews 4:10). Through faith in Jesus, you and I enter God’s rest. No longer must we strive to earn salvation. No longer do we live in fear of losing our salvation. We rest on the truth that our salvation is secure because of the finished work of Jesus Christ. 

Do you need soul rest today? Are you tired of striving to earn salvation and a place in heaven? Are you fearful that though you have done much, it might not be enough?

What you and I can’t do, Jesus has already done! Augustine once said, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” 

If your heart is restless, come to Jesus, and He will give you rest.

Jan