How can I find rest from the busyness of life? - Busyness - TouchPoints

Exodus 34:21You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working, even during the seasons of plowing and harvest.

Our lives should have a rhythm that includes both work and rest. When we ignore that rhythm because of our busyness, sooner or later we will discover that we have been unproductive even in our busyness.

Psalm 23:2He [the Lord] lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.

Like the best of shepherds, God lets us rest. If we pay attention, we will notice that he offers places and moments of peace in our lives. Ask God to make you aware of opportunities to rest.

Psalm 91:1Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

What pictures do the words shelter and shadow bring to your mind? They both evoke images of restful protection. Take time to consider: Do you intentionally live in the loving presence of the Father? Do you notice the difference when you are not? Don’t let the clutter in your busy life crowd God out.

Mark 6:31Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.

We should be proactive about planning rest and renewal within our busy schedules, or else all the other demands of life will completely dictate our agendas. God made us for work, but he also made us for rest. We must keep both in balance.

Mark 1:36-38Simon and the others went out to find [Jesus]. When they found him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.” But Jesus replied, “We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came.”

Busy as he was, Jesus never let the demands of circumstances dictate his priorities. Freeing ourselves from the trap of incessant activity requires learning to say no—sometimes even to worthwhile activities.