I was sitting at my kitchen counter, cooking food on the stove while also trying to work and juggling multiple projects, and I heard, “rest” and I began to sit with the word and begin to meditate on “rest in the midst of uncertainty.”
I cried at that moment. Some days can be very challenging especially with what is going on in the media right now and everyone’s opinion on what they think you should be doing along with already juggling your everyday life. It can seem very overwhelming.
There could even be the pressure to overperform. I’ve been there where you want to impress your boss by overextending or taking on extra only because they took the time to ask you directly. In that moment you have to sit with yourself and say is this really something I want to do or is this something that I’m doing to please another person.
I remember when I would be the one to overextend, overperform, overwork, and oftentimes it left me burnt out, hungry from not eating all day, and too tired to pour into my son which is a BIG reason why I would even be pushing myself.
Sometimes it takes evaluating what we really desire, what we want and taking the necessary steps to achieve it. It may not happen overnight, but as long as you keep going, step by step. Keep building, brick by brick, we will see the manifestation of God’s mercy and blessings in your life.
I’ve been reflecting on Matthew 11:28-30, Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
God’s rest is an opportunity to cease from any movement or labor to be still in Him, that you may recover strength and receive guidance and wisdom. It is to refresh you, to keep calm and patient in expectation.
It is to know that He is in control that no matter what the circumstance or what you may be facing, He has heard you and the answer has already been sent. When we allow God to lead us and steer us, we know that we are not walking on this path alone. I always envision being pulled, comforted, and realigned on the path he has for me. When I want to run, doubt or get anxious He reminds me of his faithfulness, leading me on the path of righteousness, restoring my soul, and breathing new life in me.
Some ways that have helped me when I have moments where my thoughts are racing:
- Deep Breaths: Tune into your breathing and be mindful of each breath. This helps to get you out of your head and into your body.
- Meditate: Meditate on the word of God, begin to let the word play in your spirit like a song. If you have a favorite verse of God’s promises towards you, read it out loud, allow it to take root in you.
- Nature: Spend time in nature, touch the grass, walk barefoot, touch leaves, watch the birds and learn from them.
These are a few things that help me in the moment when I begin to feel overwhelmed.
I really hope that this has encouraged you today to know that you are seen, you are preserved, you are loved by God and all things will work together for your good! Be Blessed!