I am tired. Not just I-need-a-nap tired. And I’m already on my second cup of coffee. I’m weary. I will continue to be tired, because I am human, and I have a finite amount of energy. The act of living is exhausting. We wear ourselves out our entire lives, just trying to stay alive, but it is ultimately an act in futility.
The other day, I found myself sitting in the safe sanctuary of my car in the Walmart parking lot. I was tired. After a long day the last thing I wanted was to go in and fight the crowds, balk over the price of a gallon of milk, and then wait in line to buy said inflated milk. But we needed milk. So I steeled myself and reached for the door handle, and then I remembered, God will give me rest.
“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.” Matthew 11: 28-30
I still had to fight the crowds. Milk is still outrageously expensive. But as I made my way through the store I pondered what Godly rest looked like. What does it mean God will give me rest? Because if He could run these errands so I can take a nap
that would be great.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
I spend a lot of time stressing. Like, a lot. And it’s exhausting. Godly rest is trusting Him with those worries. Trusting that He will take care of me. He’s already figured things out, so I don’t have to.
There are dirty dishes in the sink. The bathroom doesn’t get cleaned as often as I would like. I’m tired. But remembering the good God that I serve makes the simple tasks seem a little easier. Even enjoyable. Remembering to give Him my worries frees up some much needed headspace. As my husband and I did the dishes together, talking and laughing, my heart felt lighter than it had all day.
I went to bed with a sense of peace, “I am Not Alone” by Kari Jobe playing in my head. I’m tired. But I lead a good life. A wonderful husband, a roof over my head, good friends, a great job, family that loves me. And above all a God who knows first hand how tough it is just trying to stay alive. A God who provides me rest. While my physical body wears out, in Christ my spirit never will.