The Ultimate Source of Rest ~ Nancy Kay Grace

Rest is a necessary part of life, although many of us struggle to take a breather.

I need time to rest even when life to fast paced and the calendar is full. Not just physical rest, but soul rest—when I spend time with the Lord to gain a better perspective for my heart and soul. Hiking trails and fresh air invigorate my spirit, so walking in the woods provided the setting for my recent soul rest.

Soaking up the beautiful fall day brought great peace. Crunchy leaves underfoot, rustling leaves overhead, wind whispering by thru the tall pines helped adjust the yoke of serving the Lord. Sitting on a tree stump, I opened my Bible to Matthew 11:28-30.

“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.”

As I meditated on Jesus’ words about rest, I gained new insight.

Lately the yoke of serving the Lord had felt heavy and uncomfortable–without joy, like carrying a heavy load with sore muscles and blisters. I needed an attitude adjustment and to shift the weight of ministry onto the Lord.

Time in prayer and scripture strengthened my heart, bringing healing to an area of ministry hurt. Readjusting the yoke means removing the discomfort of an ill-fitting backpack that cuts into your shoulders. By surrendering the weight of the situation to the Lord, my burden got lighter, as did my spirit. I then felt ready to move forward with ministry again realizing that I am not meant to carry the burden alone.

When properly yoked to Jesus, I follow His lead, not mine. He is stronger as the main burden bearer. My role is to abide in Him. Then serving the Lord becomes easier to keep in step with Him.

Spiritual growth and improved perspective happens when we take take to pray and listen to the Lord.

I’m grateful for Jesus’ words for us to come to Him and rest.

His yoke is easy and His burden is light when the yoke is properly adjusted.

I pray that you can make moments to release your burdens to Jesus Christ, the ultimate burden bearer.

May you find true soul rest.