I’ve recently started using my iPad more consistently for my devotional time (hello bigger screen)… As I went to unlock it, there were instructions ‘Rest to Open’. I had to chuckle at God’s sense of humor. These were instructions I had been given since the end of last year – at least the rest part.
If you read my financial blog post sent out a few days ago, I shared the Lord gave me two words at the end of last year ‘Rest’ and ‘Surrender’. Often, it takes me just about the whole year to fully lean into the instructions, and by the time I do, the year is wrapping up.
I mentioned a surprising thing happening, in my season of rest, God has opened the door to unexpected gifts and blessings. More thoughtful decision making. I realize I accomplished almost the same things I did last year in my business, even though this year has been one of rest.
God can do what we cannot, when we follow Him and are obedient.
Upon seeing the iPad instructions ‘Rest to Open’, I believe it was a well timed reminder. There are some things that God will do, and while counter intuitive to our human minds, He tells us to rest, because there are some things that He alone can open.
I believe He wants to see if we will trust Him with the instructions that do not make sense to us.
Society tells us that we always need to be hustling to get what we want. God tells us to trust Him and rest in Him. Matthew 11:28-30 states ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light’.
And, I think it’s very important to know which season we are in. Some are being called to rest, because of our perpetual ‘go go’ mentality’. Some are being called to ‘put our hands to the plow’ – meaning, it’s time to get to work doing what we have been called to do. The key is to listen keenly for your specific instructions.
But, for the rest of my year, I will rest. As I look forward to the doors that God will open in the next season.
Dear Heavenly Father, I’m so grateful that you bend so low to be with us as frail humans. You take time to know us individually and allow us to feel your love and presence. Would you allow us to know which season we are in, whether to rest, or to work for you? Give us wisdom to know, and obedience to follow.