What do you picture when you hear the word “rest”? Remember the vacation sitting on the beach looking out at the ocean? Sounds great doesn’t it? But how do you rest in between the vacations?
The Bible uses a term called “selah” which means rest. It occurs 3 times in Psalm 46 and 71 times in the Psalms. It was a musical term to rest because these psalms were sung. The rest was a pause for the singer and also an opportunity for the hearer to think about the words that were sung. That’s pretty good direction any time we read the Bible or hear a message. Stop and think about it!
“God, You’re such a safe and powerful place to find refuge! You’re a proven help in time of trouble- more than enough and always available whenever I need you.” Psalms 46”1 The Passion Translation
So what are some ways we can rest every day when not on vacation?
Rest begins with the spirit that trusts God.
We can rest in the fact God loved us enough to send us a Savior Jesus. We can rest that we are His children and can come for forgiveness when we fall. We can rest that He is always available. Rest comes from a deep inner truth that you know that you know that you know God cares about you.
Rest includes our thought life
We keep rest by guarding our thoughts from worry and care. He keeps in peace those whose minds are stayed on Him (Isaiah 26:3). Right now I’m dealing with some challenges, so my rest is to consistently set my mind on the Answer. I believe God hears my prayers. I believe His Word is true. I have faith that the situation is turning around. Rest usually means praise. When I’m praising I’m resting. When I’m complaining I’m not.
We maintain rest by just enjoying God
I like to find the time to cherish the sunshine or enjoy the grandchildren. I like to concentrate on purpose on the blessings I have received. I like to take a walk outdoors. I like to read or sing the Psalms.
Prayer:
Father, today I rest in you. I rest in the fact I am Yours. I rest in the fact You hear and answer prayer. I rest in the fact that You have seen my through every situation in the past. I have read the end of the Book and it says we win!
