I will give you rest

Sometimes we think our bodies are like a machine. We push ourselves until we burn out which affects our physical and emotional health and wellbeing. I cant count how many times I have told myself saying “let me just scrape by just this week and it will be all good”. With COVID-19 has led to changes in work commitments (mostly often an increase). To add salt to the injury, I am guilty of taking more than I can manage and then wonder why I feel burnt out.

However, being busy  does not always equal being productive. In fact, we can be busy for things that don’t add value to our lives (I’m looking at you Zoom). I cant tell how many Zoom meetings I would have in a day at work running more than 2 hours. One time, I literally forgot my username which is my name (I think that’s when you know that you’ve lost it.)

If the car is on empty no matter how much you push the acceleration in a car, the car requires fuel in order to move. If I know this then why do I not be more mindful of not only my health and well-being and be more honest with myself. While in my head I know that I need to slow down, it is more important to be intentional in slowing down and engage in activities that are not only numbing the mind, but nourishes the soul which will look different to each person. For me, binge watching shows or Youtube leaves me feeling even more lethargic.

Rather than always being on the go, I have always known the importance for me to crave time out and reflect. This might be different for everyone and believe it is important to integrate into outlives as it helps us be more aware of habits, mindsets that we overlook. To take it a step further deeper, it was important for me to learn the difference of things that are entertainment and activities that nourish my soul. For instance, if I’ve had a long day and feeling stressed I feel more engergised when I do yoga as opposed to binge watching shows leaving me feel even more tired. For me, I enjoy allowing the my body to exercises, be in tune with breathing when doing different poses for improving my flexibility and strength. This helps me to relax yet at the same time energises my body. However,

As I took some time out sipping on some tea outside and reading I came across a passage that resonated with me.

This passage was a great reminder for me, as God knows everything that were going through, the stress, worry, anxiety etc, nothing catches Him in suprise.

The real question applicable to our lives is how do we find rest in Jesus in amogst the busyness of life and ministry?

1. COME TO JESUS. Matt 11:28-30 We first need to make the decision to come to Him not as a last option.

2. Find a quiet place that is free from distractions. I was reminded of last weeks passage Mat 6:6 when we pray, we should go to our room, close the door to pray to our Heavely Father in secret. From this passage, Jesus is telling us to close the door that is to shut off all forms of distractions and to create a quiet place where we can meet with Him. If I’m honest, this is something I am working with so many distractions. Therefore, I had to be intentional by leaving my phone in another room (the main source of distraction, having my journal and bible). The beauty of the quiet place is that it could be anywhere, like walking in the park or nature, in a cafe with your bible. For some of us, it can be challenging to find time in listening to a sermon while driving or on public transport. When we switch everything off and hunger for Him, we will be more receptive to His voice.

Throughout each day, make it a habit to pause and get back to your own natural and internal rhythm. Even if it is just five to ten minutes of slowing down.

Question: what’s you favourite way of winding down?