“The whole earth is at rest and quiet.” –Isaiah 14:7a (NRSV)
When I read that verse recently, I laughed to myself. Everyone else on the earth maybe, but not me.
Blame it on my genes. Or my personality. Or both. I just can’t sit still.
I know it’s good to rest and take time out. I know that. I really do. But, of all the areas I need to work on (and believe me, there are plenty) this is one I need to work on the most.
I’ve always envied people who can sit on the couch in the morning and watch Regis and Kelly without thinking about the grocery list or the dishwasher that needs to be emptied. Or people who carve out time in the afternoon to read in the backyard and enjoy some sunshine before the kids get home from school. And, even though I am getting a whole lot better at slowing down, it still doesn’t come naturally to me.
Take my upcoming birthday, for example. Just the other day, my husband suggested I treat myself to something fun that day. “You work so hard,” he said. “I’ll take the kids somewhere so you can just relax.”
Blissfully, I pictured a morning yoga class and a long lunch with friends…but right about then, I second-guessed my plan. Because what about my writing deadlines and commitments? What about the laundry and all the other stuff that always needs to be done?
Don’t get me wrong; I like being busy. (Well, except with laundry.) But I also realize, especially as I see my kids growing up before my eyes, how important it is to slow down and soak it all in.
Taking time to rest will make me a better wife, a better mom, a better sister, a better daughter, and a better friend.
Taking time to rest will make me a better woman.
And, even more important than those things, it’s often in the resting that God meets us. It’s often in the being still that He touches our hearts and refreshes us…
“In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” Isaiah 30:15
So even though I have to remind myself to slow down, I’m going to keep doing that. Because when we take time to rest, God can give us new strength to meet life head-on with a fresh perspective and renewed enthusiasm. And that’s more important than conquering the to-do list.
What about you? Do you have to make a conscious effort to take time to be still? Or are you good at it and have some tips you can share?
Oh – I’m so right here with you! I can’t sit still for very long (unless I’m sick and have no choice) without thinking about the 10 other things I COULD be doing.
BUT I’m learning how fatigued my body gets – and my mind – and my spirit – and I am trying to stop and smell the roses more often. Color with my girls. Take pictures of spring busting out all over my yard. Read Psalms and journal verses to remember.
I have my task list and focus on completing it, but am taking time to “schedule” rest, too. My favorite verse (no wonder) is: BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD… Trying to practice it more on a daily basis.
Thanks for a great post. I love the idea of relaxing and doing nothing, but I’m constantly stressing about the things that need to get done, or making up new things to do… I do try to get quiet time in the morning – sitting my toddler in front of a DVD if I need to, but I’ve missed it now for over a week. Somehow I need to make it a priority again.
I’m totally with ya, chica! I try to remember Jesus’ conversation with Martha in Luke 10:40-42:
“But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
and I will constantly strive to be like Mary even though, by nature, I am not.
Prayers for you and some restful time with the LORD.
Blessings in HIM~
Right there with you girl! My mind is rarely at rest – but I am definitely working on it!
Oh, girl. You have described me to a tee. We must have been cut from the same cloth. I have to work hard at being still. Thanks for the reminder.
I not only have to remind myself to rest, I have to remind myself to eat. My husband can come home from work at 3:00 and ask me if I’ve eaten, and I say, “Oh, it never crossed my mind today.” Seriously!
I am the ultra-busy homeschooling mama of 13 children (ages 7-24). My dear husband not only reminds me to eat … but he encourages and allows me to rest. Whether it’s a day away for scrapbooking with friends, or a weekend away by myself to read and write (and eat) … he gladly takes over the household duties to give me some “me time”.
Laurel
mama of 13