The Importance of Rest

It's time to pause   

Something I've struggled with taking time to genuinely rest. I don't mean getting sleep through the night. I mean, taking time to pause. In scripture, God teaches us the importance of rest and not to forsake it. God shows us the example of rest (Genesis 2:2-3) and how it is good to pause. He consecrated the 7th day as Holy. Later in Exodus, God commands us to rest. (Ex 20:8-10 & Ex 23:12). 

Sounds easy right? Well, no. I've experienced what some might call "Homemaker guilt" or "Mom guilt". It's a thing! The endless thought of, "If I don't get this done now then, I'll never get to it." or even not asking for help with things. The pressure to get everything done can be tiresome. This can lead to burnout. What good is it to pour into your home when you've been completely 'poured out'? 

What if I told you that resting is actually a vital part of our fruitful work? We see this in Genesis. When God had seen all that He'd done, He said it was very good and on the seventh day, rested. It's part of the process. It goes hand in hand. If we work to much, we burn out. If we rest too much, we become idle. 

I used to think resting was just sitting on the couch, scrolling on social media. I found that I didn't feel rested, sometimes I felt even worse. Over the years, I've implemented rest in a way that nourishes not just my physical health, but, my spiritual health. This can look different for everyone but for me, it's reading scripture, baking bread, listening to relaxing music or even taking a little time throughout the day to slow down. Because really, what's the rush? It can look like reading a book you love, painting, making music, crocheting a new project. Homemaking isn't just about making nice meals and making the house feel like home. It's also about creating. God has gifted us with different abilities to create many things. This is a blessing to us. We can use these abilities to bless others. Maybe for a family member, a friend or sometimes for ourselves to enjoy and learn something new. Rest doesn't have to mean sleeping, bingeing a show, or doom scrolling. It can be something that inspires you, something that refines you. 

When considering the Sabbath and how to keep it holy (Deuteronomy 5:12) don't shame yourself for resting. Sometimes being "busy" is the very way the enemy distracts us from rest. Find ways to pause and let go. 

It's ok to ask for help. It's ok to get to the task list later. Bring your stress to the Lord and find your rest in Him. Matthew 11:28.