Steadfast
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3
There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. Hebrews 4:9-11
INSIGHT
Rest always feels like a place that lies just beyond our reach. We think that as soon as we get things under our control, then we will experience those precious moments of rest.
We foolishly try to arrange our lives to control everything and avoid depending on others. This mindset leads to anxiety and stress and will eventually lead to pure insanity. Endless worrying and constant striving define our lives.
There is something more devastating when we seek assurance on our terms and at our pace. We stop short of what God intends for our lives. Scripture tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart, lean not on our understanding, and do not be wise in our own eyes.
Leaning on our understanding has us living backward. We reason when we get everything secured, then we will find rest. But God says: when you rest in Me, I will give you the security you seek. Rest isn't about efficiency. Neither is it about performance. Rest is about a relationship.
In Hebrews, the author urges us to be diligent to "enter His rest." A place of rest exists for each of us, and it resides when we set our mind on Him. We must be diligent to enter His rest and be fearful that somehow we will miss what He wants to do in us, with us, and through us.
To make sure we enter His rest, we carve out time to remember and opportunities to submit. We have to create times where intimacy with God is on the agenda.
Our minds can handle a hundred images at one time, but our hearts cannot. Take time to rest and move our hearts and minds into alignment with His, reminding ourselves of His character and faithfulness. Create a space to be with God.
Everything hinges on our ability to see God. We will not be able to bear the image of God if we don't know WHO we should be reflecting. Scripture talks about one day in His courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. Sabbath rest creates the space to experience that level of intimacy.
We need Him to do something deep within us so that everything we do displays His residency inside of our hearts. Rest and reflection remind us that we are not in control and, more importantly, we don't have to be. To enter His rest is to enter His presence, trust His provision, and submit to His authority.
REFLECTION
Where is your mind scattered and restless?
What would it look like to "make every effort to enter His rest"?
PRAYER
God, may I set my mind on You. Rather than rush, I will rest and reflect. I lay my life at Your feet, knowing You are the one directs my steps. Peace resides in Your presence. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
