When we think of rest and renewal we often picture tranquil settings. But what if your circumstances around you are less than ideal? Is it even possible to find soul-level rest in the midst of a topsy-turvy world? This week Leslie distinguishes between self-care and soul-level rest that is not dependent upon circumstances or our surroundings, but is derived from God’s reality. Discover that true rest isn’t found in your next vacation but begins when we fix our gaze upon Jesus Christ!
PODCAST SHOW NOTES
Soul-level rest is different than physical rest. While self-care is dependent upon circumstances, soul-level rest goes far beyond what self-care promises. While other ways to relax and unwind may be refreshing on a surface level, soul-level rest is possible in a prison cell or in the middle of a war zone because it comes from knowing exactly who God is and then commanding our soul to agree with His reality.
Three Practical Ways to Find Soul-Level Rest
- Choose to Rest from Cares and Worry
God’s Word makes it clear that we are not designed to carry our own stresses and worries ourselves. Instead, God’s Word invites us to cast our cares upon Him. The word “cast” means to “throw away, throw off, or give up to God.” Casting our care upon Jesus is an intentional decision, and we can entrust those worries to Him fully when we know that He is able and willing to carry our most difficult burdens.
- Rest from Self Effort
Trying to accomplish great things for God without His enabling power will only lead to frustration and burn out. Striving and self effort drain us physically and emotionally. It’s important to remember that serving is not the issue, serving in our strength is. May we, like Amy Carmichael once said learn to, “Let your sprit sit at the Master’s feet even when you hands are busy serving others” (paraphrased).
- Rest in the Right Way and for the Right Reasons
It’s important to ask ourselves the question: “Am I pursuing distractions or am I relaxing with something that will truly satisfy and refuel me?” There are God-appointed times for healthy recreation and when we rest the right way it will strengthen and refuel us for our calling — not plunge us into self-indulgence. Remember that the best soul-level rest is not found in indulging in “me time” but in “God time.”
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to wait until your next vacation to discover God’s pattern for rest. All you need to do is fix your gaze upon Him, quiet your soul, and begin agreeing with His reality. Whether you are in a crowded street or in the midst of a chaotic environment or walking by a peaceful ocean … your soul can be at rest when you a mind that is fixed on things above.
