Come and Find Rest

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 28:11 

Rest has been on my mind a lot as of lately, mainly because it's something that has been lacking. Not only in my life either, but seems to be a main problem for many of us Ecolites.We all recognize it's something we need, but what is it exactly? What is this rest Jesus offers?

One thing is for sure, it's more than sleep. Jesus is speaking here of a spiritual rest; one that no one but Him can bring. Reliance on Him is a key component of peace.

"For God alone, oh my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken,"


We are restless until we rest in Him. To be honest, that's where I've been lately, restless. I've been unconfident in myself, doubtful of my friendships, and unproductive. I've been impatient, selfish, and anxious. But Praise God, for He continually brings us to this point of giving up more and more. He keeps showing me my identity isn't in any of those things-it's in Him. And the more I rely on Him, the happier I become. It's beyond words! The more I just throw in the towel and say "I can't do this. God, take it," the more He strenghtens me to be able to live my calling out. He keeps showing me new things to give to Him and new ways to invest in people. He is more trustworthy then me, and there is such beautiful freedom in surrendering to Him. We are unshakable in His peace.

That's what I've been working on this week. Silently, patiently seeking Him first. As important as fellowship with believers is, time with Him is so much more precious. I've felt more rested, and actually had the first truly fantastic week since the beginnng of this term. God is showing me what a life laid down to Him feels like, and it's scarily exciting. He is making all things new as I wait on Him.

 
"So why do you worry? Consider the lillies of the field, how they neither toil nor spin, how they grow. Yet I tell you Solomon and all his slendor was not arrayed like one of these. How much more will you Heavenly Father care for you, oh you of little faith? Therefore do no worry." Matthew 6:28.


 Lillies don't worry. Lillies are quiet, yet stunning. They do not need to seek attention, but simply grow how God made them in floral radiance. They have a silent strength that blesses everyone that sees them, bringing glory to their Creator and never to them. 

Lillies don't need to prove themselves. True beauty never seeks affirmation, it has no need to.