Mar 3, 2011
God’s Work for Us is Resting
Following Jesus takes a lot of work and effort, but it isn’t necessarily the kind of work we expect. In fact, the effort that following Jesus requires often looks like nothing.
While the Christian faith is ideally an active one, one of the most important acts a Christian can do is this: rest. Sitting, listening, and making ourselves available to God are all part of the “active work” of resting.
I’ve felt called to spend more time sitting lately, and it has done so much good for helping me focus on God’s Kingdom and the needs of my relationship with Jesus. In addition, I’ve become a little more focused on praying for others and far more aware of the self-centered nature of many of my prayers.
More than anything else, I’ve learned that I need more time to rest in God’s presence. A little can make me aware of my need for so much more of God. I’m grateful that he has given me this kind of discontent.
I pray that we all can figure out ways to seek God and his Kingdom first by resting in him before the worries of our to-do lists take over.
For More About Rest: Check out Bonnie Gray’s post “One of the Biggest Rest Killers.”
Tomorrow’s Post: How Christian Writers Teach Us Theology
I’ve been hearing this observation from so many different people, Ed. I really think it’s something the Spirit is trying to communicate to the North American church. It’s hard to hear the “still, small voice” amid the hurry of activity–even good activity!
Peace!
Americans generally know how to work. Rest? Meh, not so much. Glad the Spirit is countering that.
Sitting is actually a very prayerful and restful position for me. I like sitting on the ground, preferably outside on some leaves or even dirt. I don’t mind. When it’s raining, then I’ll be inside on the carpet in a quiet corner. Love this post in the jam, Ed.
I love this post. “Sitting, listening, and making ourselves available to God are all part of the “active work” of resting.” I am adding this to what I am learning about rest!
I love what you said about having a little of God’s presence making you realize you need more. It makes me think of drinking water—I don’t realize how thirsty I am till I drink a little water. Thanks for the reminder.