Decision Magazine

Well Rested

August 1, 2005 - Have you ever been examined by a doctor who told you, "There is nothing wrong with you. You just need a rest"?

by Anne Graham Lotz

In your fast-paced, stressed-out life, do you lack rest? Do you actually long for it? I do. There have been times when even a hospital stay has appeared attractive, simply because of the rest it would seem to afford.

But there is hope. It's summertime, when traditionally the living should be easy—when life should kick back, shift gears and go at a more leisurely pace. It's a time when many of us take vacations. But in my life, the only difference summer seems to make in my overloaded schedule is that it's hot outside.

So as the summer turns into fall, I find myself looking over my shoulder wistfully, longing for the rest I haven't had. I want to be really rested. Well rested. I need the kind of rest only God can give ... the rest that the writer to the Hebrews described as being something of a trilogy, with three distinct parts:

Read Hebrews 4:1-11

Physical Rest
The Example of Physical Rest

The Experience of Physical RestIt's possible to go on the most relaxing, refreshing vacation we've ever experienced, yet return only partially rested because, although our bodies are relaxed, our spirits are weary. We need spiritual rest.

Spiritual RestEvangelist Henry Drummond said that rest "is not a hallowed feeling that comes over us in church. It is ... the repose of a heart set deep in God." Do you need spiritual rest? Rest from the self-effort of trying to please God? Rest from plotting revenge? Rest from manipulating people or circumstances to get your way? Rest from worry, fear, anger or self-pity? Are you wearily wandering in the wilderness of self-reliance instead of totally surrendering to the authority of Christ—where you can enter the Promised Land of God's full blessing and rest in Him alone?

One day all of our burdens will be laid down and all of our strivings will cease—when we enter into eternal rest.

Eternal RestBefore summer ends, take time and make the decision to be well rested. Follow God's example by building into your schedule a time for physical rest and refreshment. Re-examine the conditions for spiritual rest and make sure you meet each one.

Then relax and look forward to going some day to your heavenly Father's House where you will experience the eternal rest He is preparing for you.


Need a Place to Rest?

The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove is the perfect place to get away from the demands and pressures of everyday life and get alone with God. Walk or jog along a marked trail system, which weaves through mountains, forests and streams. For information about upcoming seminars and accommodations visit The Cove website »

Another great spot to visit as summer ends is The Billy Graham Library. Historic backdrops alternate with multimedia theaters to show events and milestones of Billy Graham’s lifelong mission—telling others about the love of Christ.


 
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