TAKE a BREAK

 

JUNE 5, 2024

Psalm 62:1

“Truly my soul finds rest in God; 

my salvation comes from him.” 

TAKE a BREAK

If you have ever had a packed schedule, a full day or an excessive load of responsibilities, you probably know how easy it is to become tired. When we face physical or mental collapse caused by an overloaded "to do list", we need to remember to rest, not only physically but also spiritually.

Some people don’t seem to see taking a break as an option. They are convinced that pausing for a breather is a huge waste of precious ticks on the clock, or they're shackled by the guilt of 'doing nothing' while their to-do list glares at them. But let's be real, this is just a tall tale, a lie that we adhere to.

However, the rest we need, and long for cannot be attained through our own strength. Instead, it is through seeking God and embracing the hope and peacefulness He provides that we find true rest.

Taking breaks is crucial. Consider the Bible verses that speak of rest; for instance, Genesis 2 highlights the concept of deliberate rest. It narrates that on the seventh day, God ceased His work of creation to rest.

“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.” (Genesis 2:2-3). Indeed, as discussed over the past two days, the Ten Commandments include instructions to observe a day of Sabbath rest.

Moving to the New Testament, it is evident that even Jesus took time to rest. In Mark 4, we see Jesus sleeping in a boat, undisturbed by the violent storm surrounding him.

In Luke 10:38-42, the story of two sisters, Mary and Martha, is recounted. Martha is preoccupied with preparations for Jesus, while Mary sits at his feet. When Martha seeks assistance from Mary, Jesus informs her that Mary has chosen the better part.

Taking a break to rest in God's presence is acceptable. While the Bible cautions against laziness, it also advocates for finding rest for one's soul in Jesus Christ.

Back to Psalm 62 that we started with today beginning at verse 5 we read,

Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from him.
6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
7 My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
8 Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.


Amen.