Back to Rest

I know that I've written about this topic before, but in the fast-paced society that we live in I don't think that the concept can be emphasized enough, especially when as I look around I see so many running like hamsters on a wheel, never taking time out to smell the roses.  So here we go again -- back to rest as an essential component of spiritual growth in our lives.  

I am so abundantly blessed.  As I look back over my life, I can see God's hand working in both the positive and the negative, and in all things He's always worked the end result to my good.

Over the last few months He's seen fit to open doors to some wonderful opportunities for me that I plan to reveal when the time is right.  Because this has paved the way for many of the dreams that He planted in my heart to be brought to fruition, in my enthusiasm I've embarked upon a work schedule that borders on the insane.  I literally have been working seven days a week for a number of hours each day that I won't dare mention to do my part to make things come together.

Both my body and my mind are tired, and things finally came to a point this weekend where warning bells began to chime that I needed to factor sanity back into the equation.  So I made myself stop and take a day to just veg out.  Today with my energy stores somewhat repleted I feel a little more rested and better able to face my challenges.

The Holy Spirit brought to my remembrance that I simply must do better about balancing the sum total of my life.  He reminded me that even God rested on the seventh day of Creation after six days of labor.  How much more as a frail human do I need to rest, even with Him being gracious enough to provide me with the resources I need to accomplish my assigned tasks?

I'm not the only workaholic in this bunch, so if you feel this message is ringing your own spiritual doorbell, don't ignore it.  Open the door, and let it in.

We can't ever let ourselves forget that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit.  Although our spiritual self is our first priority, it's our duty to also fortify our physical selves as much as wisdom allows.

Do you get your proper rest each day?  Are there others around you who should be more mindful of getting rest?  What are three things that you can do right now to ensure that your life is balanced and restful?

"And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made."  Genesis 2:2

  
Additional reading:  The Power of Rest

*Photo via stock.xchng user zatrokz.