All the rest

I remember when I was thirteen years old, having my first recognized bout with mental illness. I was so panicked and stressed that I couldn’t sleep. I am sorry to say that, thanks to me, sometimes my parents couldn’t either. During that time, a verse I’d learned rolled over and over in my mind: “he giveth his beloved sleep” (Psalm 127:2b, KJV). Oh, how I wanted to be that beloved one, who could sleep in peace! When sleep finally came, it was long and deep, as my body and mind worked to heal themselves as best as they could.

I have had other times of insomnia, as well. I’ve had a few nights where I woke early and had a burst of energy. The energy crash would come later. I’ve also had a few nights when I just didn’t want to stop reading or playing a game. Through it all, I know that God is with me, and as I abide in him, I can have true rest.

The message of this verse, though, is not primarily about getting a good sound sleep. Rather, it is that we need to focus on the most important things, like knowing God. Yes, we need to be faithful to the work he has given us. But when we try to control things so much that we can’t rest, that becomes a problem.

I am reminded of Matthew 6:33, in which Jesus says to seek God’s kingdom first, and then everything else we need will follow. You and I can have true rest, knowing that if we focus on what’s really important, he will take care of the rest.

*Dear Father, thank you for helping us focus on what truly matters. Please help us keep our eyes on you and rest in you. In Jesus’ name, amen. *

Throughout this day: Is there something keeping you awake at night? How can you trade your worry for God’s rest today?

Here is a song about God’s rest: REST