Rest (n.):
1. freedom from activity or labor
2. peace of mind or spirit
I wish I could remember what it was like, twenty-something years ago, when I didn’t care about being perfect. Back when making mistakes was fully acceptable and even encouraged, when falling wasn’t scary because I knew my parents would always pick me up and set me back on my feet.
When did that change?
Thankfully, Jesus has taught me that the only true antidote for striving to be made perfect in my own strength is to abide. Abiding in the heart of the Father brings me genuine rest, because when I rest in the Lord, I’m free from labor. Psalm 55:22 states, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you . . .” When I cast my cares, anxieties and all other “labors” onto the shoulders of the Most High, He sustains me and gives me the rest that I need.
I also have peace of mind and spirit. The peace of the Lord transcends all understanding (Philippians 4:7). If I’m constantly straining to keep control of my circumstances, I only hurt myself. Jesus wants to grant me peace of mind and a restful spirit, so sometimes I need to make like Frozen’s princess, Elsa, and just “Let it go!”
And when I rest in the Lord, I can remain con dent in who He is. He’s my good Father and faithful friend, the One who knows me better than I know myself.
It’s time for me to practice giving up control and let God take care of the rest.