Practical Wisdom for Daily Biblical Rest

 

Surrendering to deep rest is not something that has always been a part of my daily rhythm.  In fact, I survived several decades without it!  Culture does not encourage it - rather, it categorises rest as either something we do 'when everything else is done' or as a self-worshipping ritual that screams of indulgence rather than soul-deep nourishment.

In recent times, God has called me into a season of deep rest.  His instruction was clear and direct and involved a level of courage and Trust that I was not yet accustomed to.

At the time of God's instruction, my life was anything but restful.  I was working full time as a high school teacher and raising my two children predominantly on my own.  Any pocket of time I found spare was quickly filled with administrative tasks, logistical planning or prepping for the upcoming week.  As I continued on this rat-wheel of a life, my body was starting to give me some subtle (and not so subtle!) clues that I was burning out - quickly.  

Yet, the fear I carried around financial security and provision kept me in bondage.  It was a prison that only Jesus could free me from.

So in obedience to the Lord's instruction, I left my job and came home.  

In the weeks following, I vowed that I would not 'birth an Ishamel' from my impatience - but impatient I became.  And rather than fully surrendering to God's instruction, I went out to fill the space with new, temporary teaching roles, all the while my body continued to signal to me that I was misaligned.

God quickly re-routed me.  In conversation with the Father, He revealed that my obedience was only partial.  That while I left my full-time position, I was not surrendering to His call to bring me home - and to Rest.

Daily Biblical Rest is intentional.  It is the gathering of simple, nourishing habits and routines that bring our bodies and souls back into alignment with the Father.  

It involves self-discipline as well as grace.

While I still have a long way to go, I have found that introducing small, daily changes has a huge impact:

- Waking up before the sun rises

- Sitting with God in the quiet moments of the morning before the children wake

- Choosing foods that are healing and nourishing and keeping my meal times consistent

- Prioritising time in the garden as an act of stewardship

- Being intentional with my tone when speaking - a gentle tone can heal a heart

I pray dear friends, that you are able to capture a moment in your day when you fully surrender yourself to resting in the presence of our God.  

For it is in this stillness, that He speaks your name.

With Love and Blessings,

Natalie x

Upcoming Post: Time with God - The Quiet Moments of the Morning