Rest for Victory

I recently read an interesting article on BBC News about how simply being still can improve your memory function dramatically compared to continuing to work out your problems.  You can read more about it HERE.  Now, the article isn't saying be lazy and do nothing to complete the tasks you've been assigned.  Rather, it serves as a very important reminder that where you put your attention and effort effects the end result. 

If your strength lies simply in your ability to perform, you will fall short.  In fact, according to this article, you will fail quiet miserably because in trying to constantly push yourself to the next task, you will over work your brain, and it will not function at the perfect level God designed for it.  Although the article is a secular document, reading it through the eyes of faith it becomes more clear: 

If your strength rests in the Lord, you will make time to be quiet before God in the midst of your daily duties and chores.  By resting even 5 to 10 minutes before God, the end result of your work will be greater than if you worked continually to accomplish your goals alone.

God speaks a lot about resting to draw nearer to Him and the overall good that it does for us.  The concepts of "being still" or "resting" are mentioned repeatedly throughout the Bible.  Below are just a few examples:

• The LORD shall fight for you, you only need to be still.  Exodus 14:14
• Be still and know that I am God.  Psalms 46:10
• Now then, stand still and see this great thing the LORD is about to do before your eyes!  1 Samuel 12:16
• But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. Exodus 14:13
• Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: do not worry when evil people succeed in their ways or when their wicked plans come to pass.  Psalm 37:7
• Come unto me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
• And God said, "My Presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest." Exodus 33:14
• Hebrews Chapter 4 - Believers enter into God's rest. 

Basically, we all need to stop working constantly.  This isn't just good advice; it's advice from God!  In fact, there is an excellent reason He mandated a day off of work to rest and focus on Him for renewal and strength.  It's because you NEED it!  The Sabbath was made for man (Mark 2:27).

Give yourself permission to rest!

And rest peacefully knowing that while you are resting, God is still working for your good.

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