November 6th, 2025
by Pastor Pencil Boone
by Pastor Pencil Boone
Ever feel like you're running on empty, juggling endless tasks without a moment to breathe? You're not alone. In our fast-paced world, the idea of rest often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity. But what if rest is actually a divine command, woven into the very fabric of creation? Let's explore how embracing God's design for rest can transform your life.
Jesus' Invitation to Rest
Imagine being one of Jesus' disciples, returning from a whirlwind of ministry activities—teaching, healing, and spreading the good news. Exhausted, you gather around Jesus, expecting perhaps a pep talk to keep pushing forward. Instead, Jesus offers a surprising command: "Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while" (Mark 6:31). This wasn't just a suggestion; it was a directive to pause and recharge.
Jesus understood that leadership and service are demanding. He knew that without rest, fatigue would overshadow faith. This principle is as relevant today as it was then. When was the last time you truly paused to listen for God in the quiet moments?
The Rhythm of Work and Rest
From the very beginning, God modeled a rhythm of work and rest. After creating the universe, He paused, not out of exhaustion, but to establish a pattern for us. Genesis 2:2-3 tells us that God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, setting it apart as a day of rest. This wasn't just a day off; it was a sacred pause, a time to reflect and renew.
Work is good and God-ordained, bringing purpose and fulfillment. Yet, without rest, it becomes unsustainable. The disciples experienced this firsthand, so busy they didn't even have time to eat. Sound familiar? It's a reminder that rest is not a reward for hard work; it's a requirement for sustaining it.
Creating Space for Renewal
Psalm 23 beautifully illustrates the shepherd's care, leading us to green pastures and quiet waters. This imagery invites us to create space for physical and emotional renewal. Your body needs sleep, your emotions need laughter, and your mind needs quiet. These aren't luxuries; they're necessities.
Set boundaries to protect your rest. Schedule it like any other important appointment. Guard your sleep, plan time with loved ones, and learn to say no to commitments that crowd out renewal. Trust that when you lie down, you're declaring that God is in control, not you.
Practical Steps to Embrace Rest
A Call to Action
This week, take a step back and evaluate your life. Are you leading from a place of overflow or emptiness? Consider how you can incorporate rest into your routine, trusting that God will provide the strength and peace you need.
A Prayer for Rest
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of rest. Help us to embrace Your design for renewal, trusting in Your provision and peace. May we find true rest in You, leading from a place of abundance rather than exhaustion. Guide us to green pastures and quiet waters, renewing our strength for the journey ahead. In Jesus' name, Amen.
By embracing rest as a divine requirement, not just a reward, we align ourselves with God's rhythm, finding strength and peace in His presence. Will you answer His call to rest?
Jesus' Invitation to Rest
Imagine being one of Jesus' disciples, returning from a whirlwind of ministry activities—teaching, healing, and spreading the good news. Exhausted, you gather around Jesus, expecting perhaps a pep talk to keep pushing forward. Instead, Jesus offers a surprising command: "Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while" (Mark 6:31). This wasn't just a suggestion; it was a directive to pause and recharge.
Jesus understood that leadership and service are demanding. He knew that without rest, fatigue would overshadow faith. This principle is as relevant today as it was then. When was the last time you truly paused to listen for God in the quiet moments?
The Rhythm of Work and Rest
From the very beginning, God modeled a rhythm of work and rest. After creating the universe, He paused, not out of exhaustion, but to establish a pattern for us. Genesis 2:2-3 tells us that God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, setting it apart as a day of rest. This wasn't just a day off; it was a sacred pause, a time to reflect and renew.
Work is good and God-ordained, bringing purpose and fulfillment. Yet, without rest, it becomes unsustainable. The disciples experienced this firsthand, so busy they didn't even have time to eat. Sound familiar? It's a reminder that rest is not a reward for hard work; it's a requirement for sustaining it.
Creating Space for Renewal
Psalm 23 beautifully illustrates the shepherd's care, leading us to green pastures and quiet waters. This imagery invites us to create space for physical and emotional renewal. Your body needs sleep, your emotions need laughter, and your mind needs quiet. These aren't luxuries; they're necessities.
Set boundaries to protect your rest. Schedule it like any other important appointment. Guard your sleep, plan time with loved ones, and learn to say no to commitments that crowd out renewal. Trust that when you lie down, you're declaring that God is in control, not you.
Practical Steps to Embrace Rest
- Recognize God's Design: Understand that rest is part of God's plan for you. It's not optional; it's essential.
- Embrace the Rhythm: Balance work with intentional rest. Reflect on your current schedule and identify areas where you can incorporate rest.
- Set Boundaries: Protect your time for renewal. Prioritize sleep, family, and personal time with God.
- Trust in God's Provision: Exchange your pressure for God's peace. Surrender control and allow God to refresh and recreate you.
A Call to Action
This week, take a step back and evaluate your life. Are you leading from a place of overflow or emptiness? Consider how you can incorporate rest into your routine, trusting that God will provide the strength and peace you need.
A Prayer for Rest
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of rest. Help us to embrace Your design for renewal, trusting in Your provision and peace. May we find true rest in You, leading from a place of abundance rather than exhaustion. Guide us to green pastures and quiet waters, renewing our strength for the journey ahead. In Jesus' name, Amen.
By embracing rest as a divine requirement, not just a reward, we align ourselves with God's rhythm, finding strength and peace in His presence. Will you answer His call to rest?
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