Daily Devotional for Sunday December 19, 1999

The Day God Rested

The day God rested. Today, with Christmas only a few days off, all of the Holiday activities in full swing at home, work, school, and at church...how could you even think about resting? Today, let's take our cue from God and rest, relax, and let Him refresh us. I found many years ago, that when I put all of the busy activities of life on hold and just kicked back for a day, I was able to get much more accomplished. It makes sense. You are rested, refreshed, your mind is clear, and you have renewed energy. In that state we can accomplish quite a lot. But when we are tired, we can't give our best effort, we can't think clearly, we tend to make hasty unprayerful decisions that come back to haunt us, and we just don't enjoy life.

If anyone ever needed this devotional today, it is me. If these words God has led me to share with you today are for anyone, they may be for me. I have a terrible habit of getting so focused, so driven by the things that need to be done each day, that I sacrifice that quiet time, that time of refreshing we all need on a regular basis. Again, if after 6 days of creating the world and everything in it, God rested, maybe we should realize that we need a day of rest too. Jesus in His earthly ministry is described many times as "getting away by Himself". If Our Lord realized the need for a time of refreshing from time to time, shouldn't we?

I am not going any deeper today than to give you this challenge. I know the date on the calendar. I know the time on the clock. I challenge you today to put off all of those "pressing" matters you "have" to take care of. Turn off the cell phone. Maybe it is as simple as going home, getting into something comfortable, and just watching TV, or playing with your kids, or spending some quality time alone with your wife, or doing something relaxing with your family or friends. Make today a day of rest. You need it. God wants you to do it so that you can be fresh, sharp, and the best you possibly can be for Him.

I am praying that in the midst of the hectic lives so many lead, you will hear these words and make an effort to rest and relax today. I love you, care for you, and know God will honor your desire to be His instrument, sharp, ready, energized, and prepared for the work He has given you to do. Let His peace, His presence, and His love consume you this day. Let Him recharge your batteries and rekindle that fire inside of you to serve Him. May you know the calming presence of the Lord this day in a very special way.