It’s Okay to Rest

Recently, I realized just how tired I really was. All I could see was the overwhelming amount of responsibility ahead of me. The time on the clock wasn’t kind enough to stop just for a second to let me catch my breath! My brain just wouldn’t shut off. I felt like a walking zombie. I was burnt out and this was life as I knew it.

Can you relate?

It wasn’t until last weekend I actually caught my breath. I had an afternoon to myself, doing absolutely nothing but rest. Now don’t get me wrong, I love my family and all God has blessed me with. But I needed this, even if it was for only a few hours. Not to be selfish but it felt better than good – It felt great!

As I was experiencing my solitude, I felt guilty about enjoying it. Was I a bad person for welcoming the silence? I was celebrating the fact that no one was calling my name. No one demanded my attention and I didn’t have to think about ANYTHING!

But as I was reading through multiple devotions this week, I got the confirmation I needed. No, I wasn’t a bad person. The majority of the devotions I read talked about rest. I guess God was trying to tell me that it’s okay to rest. He reminded me of the old saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” I definitely was pouring from one.

I found myself asking Jesus to take the wheel when I was tired, but it’s pointless since I still try to steer. I know firsthand it’s hard to relinquish control. Because honestly, whether we want to admit it or not, we all have control issues. But giving up control is the only way to get filled back up.

Matthew 11:29-30 says, “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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Not only is our spiritual well-being important to God, so is our physical and emotional well-being. Clearly, He knows the importance of rest and we just need to catch up. The world won’t stop if you rest. So the next time you get tired, try putting your pride aside. Ask for help and be willing to accept it. You aren’t less of a person when you do, just a smarter one.

If you don’t rest, how can you effectively fulfill the roles God has called you to? How can you display the true love of Christ when we’re not at our best? And remember, if God can rest why can’t you?