R E S T 

Wherever you are, take a moment and notice how the idea of “rest” makes you feel. 

Wistful? (What you wish had more time for in your busy schedule) 

Nostalgic? (You fondly remember a season in the past when you had time for such a “luxury” – maybe before kids, or before entering adulthood, or before you began the climb on the corporate ladder) 

Guilty? (I know I should be resting more, but I just can’t figure out how to make this happen.) 

Peaceful? (Yes! Rest helps me savor life; remember what’s good and beautiful.) 

There is no wrong answer, by the way. As I write these words, I can identify with all of them. I do wish I’d make more time in my life for regular rest and that I’d live out of the grace of resting (wistful). I remember life before kids, when I did have more semblance of control over my schedule and could more easily “step away” from responsibilities (nostalgic). And oh my goodness, on the eve of completing this book about rest, I can feel so guilty for not practicing what I write (guilty). But what I’ll choose to land on is this sense of well-being that comes as I take a few moments to stop and notice the beauty of the late blooms of the summer, to savor today’s pace that will be a break after a busy week (peaceful).

It’s the absence of rest in my life that drew me to engage in writing about rest. I hope you, too, will find just what your heart needs the most as you follow along to find the path to the rest God promises and provides for his people. Rest: Creating Space for Soul Refreshment is part of the 31-Day Devotionals for Life Series published by P&R, with series editor Deepak Reju.