Permission to Rest

I called a friend Monday morning. I told her I was tired, toast, dry, parched and numb. You get the picture? I asked her if she could just tell me the next thing to do. I was too tired to think on my own.

She had no problem telling me what to do. She said you need three days rest! WOW – three days, I’m not even sick. I decided to heed her advice. I’ve rested for three days. Not the kind of rest where I'd camp out on the couch, but the kind where I lingered in my prayer time, read more of God’s word, and lazily finished up some articles I needed to submit. I haven’t been hurried or rushed. I’ve enjoyed each moment.

I’m so thankful my friend knew exactly what this girl needed. Three days rest. Today is the third day and I feel rested. Oh my, I feel like a new woman. I’m no longer a dry, parched soul. I’m refreshed, renewed and reenergized.

Why should I be surprised? Why didn’t I recognize that I just needed rest? I worship the Lord of the Sabbath – the Lord of Rest. Doesn’t He say, “Come to me all who are weary and I will give you REST?”

You have permission to rest, my friend. Take three days if needed, but REST.