We live in a culture where productivity is at the forefront of innovation and advancement. We are constantly striving for more and to be better, stronger, faster, wealthier, and happier. However, the constant striving and pressure to produce will eventually lead to burnout or a decline in our physical and mental health. We weren’t made to be machines that could go on and on. We need and must prioritize rest.
So often our performance, productivity, and work become our identity, a means of salvation if you will. It’s a way for us to matter, to have value, worth, and to be significant. That is a lot of pressure, right? When we believe that everything rests (no pun intended) on our shoulders, it’s hard to relax, isn’t it? When we believe our reputation and importance hinges on what we do, it’s tough to slow down and let go of things. Yet, underneath the grind, we’re desperate for some kind of reprieve. We long for a love and acceptance that isn’t predicated on our performance.
How do we actually rest then? I think the misconception we often have is that rest is easy and only about ceasing from work. The truth is rest takes intentionality and effort. Ceasing from work is only part of it. The other part is consistently choosing and practicing rest. We got into our patterns of work and productivity by practice and repetition, so developing patterns of rest will take practice and repetition as well. There is a reason why God tells us to intentionally stop working and set aside time for rest.
Although resting requires effort and intentionality on our part, rest is also something we receive. Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29). After we have come to Jesus and taken on his yoke (or more accurately yoked ourselves to him), we receive the rest he gives us.
Ultimately, rest isn’t just something Jesus gives, but something he came to be for us. Jesus became our rest when he finished the ultimate work of salvation. Because he has satisfied the work God called him to do, we can now rest because we no longer have to work for our value, worth, identity, and salvation. We matter and are loved and accepted based on what Jesus has done and not on what we have done. This is the good news for our mental health that will lead to flourishing. You are loved just as you are.
Need help creating rhythms of rest in your life? Reach out today!
