If You Rush, You Must Rest
Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, He said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31
Mark records, ‘Jesus 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.’ No one had a greater assignment than Jesus, and no one was busier, not even you! But He knew the importance of relaxation. He understood the balance between work and rest, which is why He was able to accomplish so much in so little time. The more successful you are, the greater the demands on your time and energy will be. People are wonderful, but they can be draining. As your career and your calling grow, this will only become more so. Renewing yourself will require constant attention. If you don’t do this, you can be sure those around you won’t. Work hard, but play just as enthusiastically. Schedule it. Take one day a week off and totally relax. Focus on something other than your job. If you do that your mind will be clearer, you’ll make better decisions, you’ll see life through different eyes, and you’ll accomplish far more. Stop and answer these questions: How often do you actually schedule time for rest and relaxation? What do you do to rest your mind at work? At home? If you had one full day all to yourself, what would you do? If you struggle to answer those questions then you need to pray….
Prayer
Lord, teach me how to rest. Show me how I can turn towards You and be restored and renewed. In Your precious Name, Amen
I’ve always been judged by how hard I work. I’m tired
Marcia, I’m sorry to hear that you are “judged by how hard you work.” You are not alone…those are 2 common themes in this world…judging unfairly, and working too hard. You are speaking for many, many ppl. Thanks for speaking out how you feel.
Hopefully you can realize WHO you are truly working for, and when you are working for Him, that might change your perspective. He doesn’t judge you for working hard. However, He also encourages you to take time to rest, as the devotion mentions. I’m not sure who is judging you, but “work as though you are working for the Lord”…and take time to rest. Hope this helps.