THE LAW OF REST
Mark 6:30-32
The Oxford dictionary defines rest as cease work or movement to relax or recover strength. One thing that is luxury and lacking in most lives these days is rest. There is so much to do and little time to accomplish that rest has taken the background. Many people have forgotten that rest should be part of our daily plan. To rest is to take time off, sit back, have/take a break, have/take a nap, chill out, de-stress. Rest is an instance or period of resting; a period of relaxation when you take off or time out. There is a saying that “if you don’t rest, you will soon be laid to rest”. This should not be so for you. Even the Almighty God took time to rest thus giving us an example to follow:
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. Genesis 2:1-3
This is a basic principle of God; that works cannot and should not be done back to back without rest. Rest is not only important, it is compulsory. If you don’t choose a time of rest, your body will choose it for you. The only thing about your body choosing a time for you is that when it does, it shuts down totally. To rest is to be fully ready for the next task, to rest is to be recharged after being depleted. A battery that is not recharged as at when due after use will simply die. So make sure to take proper care of your life by observing adequate rest
Beloved, if God rested, who are you not to rest? God rested not because he needed it or because he was weary. He did it to give us example. By allowing our bodies time to recover, rest helps prevent injuries and invoke overall performance. It also aids in muscle repair, reduces inflammation, and supports a healthy immune system. Additionally, rest helps manage stress levels and lower blood pressure, contributing to a healthier heart. In our text, we see the Lord Jesus organising a retreat for the disciples for just one purpose: REST.
Here are some tips on how to incorporate these types of rest into our lives. The first thing is making rest a priority in your life by scheduling time for each rest. Be intentional about the type of rest you choose and make sure it aligns with what your body and mind needs. Take short breaks throughout the day to rest your body and mind. Go for a short walk, meditate, or just take a few breaths. Set boundaries around your time and energy. Learn to say no when you need to and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Disconnect from technology and social media regularly to give your mind a break from constant stimulation. Make rest a habit in your life. Incorporate it into your daily routine.
MEDITATION: Matthew 11:28. Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
