I sit across the table from my husband on a cold morning. Snow spatters the streets outside and coffee steams from my cup.
“I’ve been trying to rest,” I say, “And I don’t think it’s working.”
He looks up at me, “Maybe what your idea of rest isn’t really rest.”
I nod. I’ve been thinking about that too.
When I felt like I needed to start slowing down a few months ago, I took that literally. I spent more time on the couch. I crossed items off my to-do list.
And I felt worse.
“You’re a dreamer,” my husband goes on, “You need to be free to chase ideas, move toward the future, try new things. That’s what renews you.”
He’s a wise one, my man.
I realized what I’d been missing more than I realized…
I’m coming to see that when God asked me to rest it was actually more about my heart.
Learning to trust instead of strive.
Learning to enjoy rather than push so hard.
Learning to focus on the moment instead of results.
I think of the verse God put on my heart when all this began…
It’s an intimate invitation—
not to step away from life but to embrace the Giver of it.
And when we engage with Him, it’s always an adventure.
Yes?
I feel the hope seep back into my bones, the peace find its way to my soul again.
Yes, I’m made to dream.
And to love the Dreamer.
So are you.
Sabbath.
What if we think about rest differently—not as simply the absence of work but instead as the presence of a Person? The One who made us, who formed our hearts, who places dreams within us like seeds that grow into all He has for us.
I read once that the word “rest” is actually closely related to the word “celebration.”
That puts it all in a whole different light, doesn’t it?
What if God’s invitation to rest is really an invitation to joy—life to the full?
After all, Jesus did say “Come to Me, all you who are weary….” (sounds like the words from Song of Solomon above, doesn’t it?)
I look out across the snow again. It glistens in the sun. A drop falls from the roof with a splash. I close my eyes and I can almost smell the first bit of spring.
New life.
It’s coming.
Or maybe it’s been there all along.
by Holley Gerth, Heart to Heart with Holley
I’d love to hear your thoughts: What do you think “rest” really means? What truly helps you connect with God and be renewed?
p.s. We’re kicking off the Bloom (in)courage book club! We’d love for you to join us!
Leave a Comment
Melissa says
Oh Holley, just reading these words is like exhaling deep. Thank you. Three months before my dad passed away, the Lord put Rest on my heart. To study it and teach it. Looking back, I saw that as God preparing me for what lie ahead.
If I had to define what rest was to me, it would be the song, “It is Well With My Soul.” That song was placed in my heart the minute I knew I would be watching my dad take his last breath.
I see rest so much differently now. I see it as ransom that Jesus paid. I see rest as reflecting on who God is. I see it as restoration, but mostly as rejoicing for what is to come. When the rest lost in the Garden is found again in Heaven.
Eva says
This is the same thing for me! Before my Mom past away it seemed like I just couldn’t get enough of God in my life! I read His Word, I listened to teaching everywhere! It seemed like He was building me up and getting me strong! After Mom pasted away I knew why this was happening to me! I could see it clear as day! So many times in my life I didn’t realize until I looked back and so when I get weary I get reminded of all those times how He is always watching out for me! It keeps me grounded in His Love!
Faith and Trust is always there!
Holley Gerth says
Isn’t it beautiful how God pulls us close to Him in (and before) the hard places? How would we make it otherwise? Thank you for sharing this, Eva and Melissa.
Melissa says
Yes, I remember the hunger and thirst…Him drawing close before I ever knew to draw close to Him. Such abounding grace!
Laura@Life Overseas says
Holley,
Thanks for talking about the importance of “rest” in a world of go-go-go and work-work-work.
My amazing friend Amy K. (you know her!) shared with me last night about a talk she heard from a speaker at IHOP, and the speaker’s words really resonate with this topic. She was saying that our “success” is not defined by activity or accomplishment, but rather that it is defined by two things: that we lived the day as LOVED and a LOVER. We should spend our moments fully resting in the Love Jesus has for us, and fully giving our hearts to Loving Him back.
I think that idea of “Loved and Lover” speaks “rest” for me– it eliminates the checklists and replaces it with the simplicity of nurturing my relationship with Jesus.
Holley Gerth says
“Loved and Lover”–that’s so good. It really all comes back to love, doesn’t it?
Michelle says
Oh, Holley,
I too have struggled with finding rest. I did everything I knew in the natural to rest. I did less, took naps, tried to say no, cut out all I could, only to find there was not rest in my soul.
The Lord recently healed and delivered me from this unrestfulness in a very dramatic way. Once I realized that the anxiety was a sin to be repented of and removed, that the ‘rest’ I longed from was an ‘inside job’, not necessarily what I was doing on the outside, and that I am able to completely trust and surrender my every moment to Him, when I stopped fighting Him with who I was and who I wanted to become, when I came to a place of acceptance and love for myself RIGHT WHERE I WAS AT, (an more) phew, then peace came.
Living out Ann’s book has really cemented the deal. I feel like it is bringing to completion what He began so long ago. The freedom I feel is amazing. For the first time in as far back as I can remember I am at rest. Funny, without the internal struggles I have strength and energy and joy like I never have! I love REST! I used to hate it, resist it, now, I love it!
thanks for you words, so inspiring!!
Relentlessly Pursuing,
Michelle
Betty says
which book are you referring to ?…thanks
Michelle says
Sorry (sheepish grin) One thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
Grace {Hope} says
Oh boy,,, if i ever needed to hear anything its that!
My new mission started beginning of January, after a harsh bout of flu over Christmas and moving house. I was trying not to strive and yet I didnt know how else to ‘hit the ground running’ as when I came here I was straight into my new role and straight into mentoring young women and leading out on their training to be more Christ-like.
Needless to say 5 weeks later I am burnt out. I think it is my body but reading this i resonate mch more with how its my soul…my heart.
This is my fourth day of ‘rest’ that I have been told to take it easy… and I have no idea what that means. There is a huge guilt in taking it easy when you are needed elsewhere.
And so I read your post… a different kind of rest, not pushing so hard but trusting.
Thank you, as ever, Holley, for who you are in Christ.. A vessel from Gods heart to mine.
Love Grace
Holley Gerth says
Sweet Grace, praying for renewal and restoration for you right now…
eileen says
“Learning to focus on the moment instead of results. ” This is great!!
Beth Williams says
Holley,
You really do have a way with words. Sometimes when I need to rest I sit on the couch and listen to Contemporary Christian Music or a tv preacher (Dr. Charles Stanley or Joel Osteen).
Rest is coming back to Him and getting the heart right with Him – don’t worry about results – He will take care of that! 🙂
Shirley says
Amen to that! I just found this site from Dayspring and it has been so uplifting for me. In these times of trouble and fast paced everything, I feel like I am being consumed into a big deep whirlpool of a pit. I tend to start to concentrate on all the past and the what-ifs and if only I had…. fill in the blanks. I work myself up into such a state and find myself losing myself. Finding myself in a pit of despair and good for nothingness. Then I find a site like this and start reading uplifting comments and blogs and you are absolutely right, it isn’t about results, God will take care of that. Rest to me is resting in our Savior’s arms. I picture just going up and giving him a big everlasting hug. It makes everything right. And yes, the uplifting worship music helps tremendously to put me “in the zone.” We get so lost in our every day ruckus that finding that time of peace and rest is absolutely everything the doctor ordered…our Lord. Take time to smell the air and listen to the birds sing and feel the love.
Semalee says
LOVE LOVE LOVE this post! Thank you so much! I think we all long for true rest, yet have such a hard time achieving it. As we prepare for the season of Lent this is a great thing to really ponder. Thank you!
Semalee @ Nailing Jello to a Tree
Heather Gemmen Wilson says
I’m not surprised to hear that you are a dreamer, Holley. I love that about you!
deidra says
I’m thinking rest is freedom from striving. Freedom from trying to fix everything that goes wrong and freedom from thinking that when things go wrong it’s the end of my small little world. It’s letting the weight of the world roll off my tiny spiritual shoulders and moving back so that God can do what only God can do. It’s trusting God when God says, “Relax. I’ve got this.”
Holley Gerth says
“Rest is freedom from striving.” Yes, I like that definition, Deidra!
Sherry says
Wow, Deidra, this is just the message God has been speaking to me. Trusting God when God says, “Relax, I’ve got this.” My response is “Are you sure God? Cause I’m not really used to not doing something. Are you sure there’s nothing I can do? (I call them my Martha moments). I’m a dreamer and a teacher which means I am always in “make a plan, work the plan” mode. If something goes wrong, “make a plan, work the plan” and you get through it.
I am in a situation where I can’t make a plan and work the plan to get through it. My family is under attack and on the verge of falling apart. It is definitely a God sized situation and I need to let Him work. He has spoken..
…2 Chronicles 20 …
15…This is what the LORD says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. …17 You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.’”
I am learning it is ok to rest in Him and trust Him and let Him be God and do what only God can do. (A Mary moment maybe?) I am so used to doing something. I am fighting guilt at not doing something. When I spend time with Him, I have peace and joy even in the midst of the mess. I can’t wait to spend more time with Him, as much as I can each day.
Holly, thank you for your words of encouragement as you write and journey with God and us. I have sent your posts to my daughters and to friends and they have been touched too.
Becky Dumais says
Dear deidra,
You have put so beautifully exactly what Holly’s words meant to me. I to have been trying to “rest” -running from stress, anxiety, fear. But rest I am coming to realize is serenity, peace, acceptance of what is. And Faith in God’s abundant love!
Donna says
Holley, I agree with you. Rest is an intimate invitation. I am a little weary spiritually and He’s who I need. Thanks for the beauty of the way you say things. They help me see.
Donna
Becky says
Dear Holley,
Wow, there was so much I needed to hear right now in this post! So much I need to learn, as well…
“Learning to trust instead of strive. Learning to enjoy rather than push so hard.
Learning to focus on the moment instead of results. ”
A good friend gave me a verse a while ago. Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.” She knows me well. She knows that I am not good at being still at all. So much striving. So much worry. So uneasy. The verse kept showing up however. It became a real comfort. I recently found it on a beautiful picture in a Christian book store and bought it and hung it up over my fireplace. Remembering that verse is helping me.
Thank you for this post today. I need to read it again.
Love and blessings,
Judy Layton says
Good morning Holley,
Your Word from The Word these past few months have pierced my heart for He has asked me to REST as well and in Him. It’s why He has changed my direction in ministry and it is the desire of my heart that every day I could say..yes, Lord today there has been more of you and less of me.
He has spoken to me through his Word and through His saints (that include you my blogger friend) and some days the Light is so bright I can barely stand it….there is joy and there is conviction.
With every year on the calendar and every breath I am able to take on this earth…I need Him MORE.
I cannot dream His dreams apart from His Word.
It is my anchor.
Be blessed.
Judy
Marj Pennington says
Holley, I’ve been told by doctors, friends, family, everyone in the last few month that I need to get LOTS of rest. Don’t do any work, stop all your church activities. Afterall, you have cancer! In the last few days the Lord has been telling me to get more involved everywhere. Not to the extinct I was, but I must qiut fucing on cancer and me and focus on the really important things, God, the church, my family. Thanks for this message today — another message from the Lord and today I start working – half speed maybe, but work for the LORD! I feel BETTER just thinkiing about it! Love, Marj
Patty Faulkner says
I cannot express in mere words what your post this morning means to me. You have hit the nail right on the head. Thank you so much. I feel like I can breathe again. Bless you for being vulnerable with all of us and for allowing the Lord to use you as a vessel of his power and His grace to reach so many. The striving is over… The tightness in my chest is gone! Isn’t Jesus wonderful. HE LOVES US!
Jennifer Ross says
I have been struggling to find rest. The rest that makes you feel renewed, when it has been found. I know that in finding this rest, it will only be in the presence of God. Life is so busy, going here and going there, but searching deep within, I’ll surely find Him…… the perfect rest.
Beautiful post.
Courtney says
Oh Holley… “not to step away from life but to embrace the Giver of it.” Getting better at this day by day… thank you for another beautiful post 🙂
laurie says
Oh Holley, you’ve nailed it. I spent all last week on my coaching page dealing with the idea of rest and the importance of relaxation. Mostly because I hate to relax. I fight it with everything in me. Because I’m like you… I get renewed in the midst of pursuing a dream. I love love LOVE how you invite us to look at rest not as an absence of work but in the presence of Him, our love and life. Sharing this forward on my coaching page. You are such a blessing!
Myrna says
Jesus, I give You praise! I thank You for the REST You provide for us. May we accept Your REST as each one of us seeks You in finding it within ourselves, and especially in our relationship with You.♥
In Jesus name. Amen!
Helen says
New International Version (©1984)
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
New Living Translation (©2007)
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
English Standard Version (©2001)
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
New American Standard Bible (©1995)
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.
International Standard Version (©2008)
“Come to me, all of you who are weary and loaded down with burdens, and I will give you rest.
GOD’S WORD® Translation (©1995)
“Come to me, all who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest.
King James Bible
Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
American King James Version
Come to me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
American Standard Version
Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Bible in Basic English
Come to me, all you who are troubled and weighted down with care, and I will give you rest.
Douay-Rheims Bible
Come to me, all you that labour, and are burdened, and I will refresh you.
Darby Bible Translation
Come to me, all ye who labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest.
English Revised Version
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Webster’s Bible Translation
Come to me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Weymouth New Testament
“Come to me, all you toiling and burdened ones, and *I* will give you rest.
World English Bible
“Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest.
Young’s Literal Translation
‘Come unto me, all ye labouring and burdened ones, and I will give you rest,
Holley my sister in Christ, no matter what the translation… rest is given when we come to Him… just come, who do you love more, Christ or your burdens?
Betty says
I think your husband is a wise man…often we are so focused on goals that we forget to enjoy the journey…I find rest in small simple things….like children playing and hearing the surf and looking at a beautiful garden…I find rest in hobbies such as knitting where I can create something beautiful…….Blessings to you
normajeane says
Hi Holley.
As I sit looking out of my window in England our snow as passed and the sun is
shinning ,birds sing trees bud,and the time is here to step out of my boat because
Holly its not GODS BEST what I am trying to say I have made abad move, and finding
your words just helps
thank you
Gardenia says
Hello Holley and everyone. I wanted to say thank you for this beautiful post. I went to bed last night exhausted, but emotionally and mentally exhausted. I am in a crisis right now and my heart hurts. I feel agony and despair. I woke up today and I’m thinking I should go back to bed inorder to forget. I suppose it’s the easy choice, rather than dealing with my reality. However, when I read this post I realized, that I should ask God for help. To help me with my burden and despair. I feel especially sad today, and I am missing out on the beauty God provides every day. I just not in harmony. Sadness is taking over. I pray for all who are in need of a prayer. I appreciate anyone praying for me. I need prayers. Thank you Holley for this post, it touched home. It made me feel relief. It makes perfect sense. It shows that God comforts always. In any situation and circumstance.
Holley Gerth says
I’m sorry you’re in a crisis now, Gardenia, saying a prayer for you today…
Sherry says
Our situations could be vastly different, …. I know the ache of a heart that hurts. I am praying for you right now.
Beth West says
May His Shalom fill your heart, Gardenia. I pray you will feel His loving presence in your life and know that he is repairing all of the hurt and sad places in you.
Gigi says
HOLLY
yOU SURE HAVE A POINT SOME OF US WE KEEP GOING & GOING AND THINK i FOREVER NEED TO DO THAT …bUT i NEED TO STOP AND ASK THE lORD WHAT ARE HIS PLANS FOR ME AND FOLLOW IT ..IT’S NEVER EASY BUT WITH PRAYERS AND SUPPLICATIONS I WILL GET THERE ..tHANK YOU hOLLY FOR THE ENCOURAGING WORDS ..
lOVE .MARIE.
Elizabeth says
Rest – one of the things I find soooo difficult to do. Once in a very turbulent time in my life I heard God telling me to be still, but I couldn’t; I didn’t know how to. I felt I needed to do something to fix the problem. All the while He was calling me to rest, be still, trust. That’s what rest means to me, trusting Father to take care of me and my business. Sometimes that’s so hard to do, but He is helping me. Rest, trust!
Barb says
I love your comments and inspiration and you so elogquently and are so blessed with writing down the exact words that are emanating from my own heart. They are so uplifting and you have such an awesome gift… All the scriptures you derive yours thoughts from are so beautiful, and I just want you to know that you are a very blessed angel to me. God is very real in my life and He is the center of my life – Please continue on doing what you do in His precious Name.
Caryn says
Wow, Holley, it amazes me sometimes how close the hearts of you and your readers are. I went back to school January 2010. Been working on a culinary arts degree (baking & pastry). I was having the time of my life in the beginning. I was following my dream. Now I’m just exhausted. This past Thursday I came very, very close to a melt down all because a caramel box I was making was not perfect. Yes my whole world came to a halt because of sugar. I’m forgetting to enjoy. I just got it…the second part of that word is JOY. I pushed the joy out of my dream all because I have to be perfect…I have to make A’s. Thank you again for your words today, they opened my eyes. Time again to enJOY my dream. It’s not about being perfect.
God bless you darling girl. Keep dreaming.
Holley Gerth says
Oh, girl, I just wrapped up grad school about a year and a half ago and I still remember that school stress well. You can do it! Asking Jesus to give you extra strength in Him this week…
Candace says
Holley, the Lord has prompted me to make “rest” my word of the year. Not as in taking a nap (ha) but resting in Him. For me, that means a lot of things…but most especially like you said – TRUSTING HIM despite my circumstances. Resting in Him and His love for me, despite my pesky feelings. I am praying that He would allow me to rest in Him for my security. That’s hard.
Have you heard the song Restless by Audrey Assad?? It has become a new favorite and is perfect for this theme of rest.
http://candacemercyisnew.blogspot.com/2011/01/restless.html
Holley Gerth says
I love that your word for the year is “rest”! And that song has been such a comfort to me–I sing it over and over in my car sometimes!
wendy says
the verse God often uses to speak to me about rest is found in the message translation
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
matthew 11:28
Deborah I says
To me it is always Spring time in the presence of God, in His Spirit. 🙂 In this place of intimacy it is a perpetual flow. 🙂
Blessings,
Deb
Janna says
I was just pondering Hebrews early this morning, where it talks about His rest. I was praying over it, wondering what God had for me. Thank you for this.
Jane says
This really opened my eyes. I am one of those who focused on the results and doesn’t always enjoy what is there before me. Thank you for that wonderful reminder!! God Bless!!
Karen Campbell says
Wow! I love this! I finished grad school back in Dec and I was so ready to “rest”, to do nothing but think etc. I realized quickly that what I really needed was time with God…deep..sweet time with Him. I loved your post and what you meant by celebration! Even as I wait to become a mother…I have so much in my life to celebrate! He makes all things new!!! 🙂
Linda says
What wonderful truth Holley. I hadn’t really thought of it that way, but I know it is right. I have often thought (and we’ve had lots of these the past few years) there is nothing more wearing that days of sitting and waiting. I feel as though I’ve run a marathon at the end of them. I’m going to ponder this one, and then live it out.
Thank you dear Holley.
Debbie says
Holley,
I have come to see that “rest” means to take His yoke and allow Him to walk with us pulling the heaviest portion of our loads and we work too, but carry a lighter part of the load. What I mean in “we work too” , is that we must do our part , get up and “go”, “tell the story of Jesus”, “get up and go see that sick one”, ” get out our pens and write”, but He carries the part of the load that weights us down or paralyzes us”.
And “rest” in Jesus is Psalms 46;10 To be still and know that He is God. We are to watch , pray, and praise, but to Trust and not fret! It is His battle and He tells us do not be dismayed , do not fear, see the salvation of the LORD. He told Jehoshapaht in II Chronicles to get a people together and praise while He fought the battle and delivered His people, but do not fear.
So “rest” is Trust In GOD! Don’t panic, or get sick over matters, but take them to God in prayer and BELIEVE that HE WILL!
Abby says
I LOVE THIS!!! So many things you said…rest in dreams…those seeds He places in us…adventure with Him, but most, YES! ‘What if we think about rest differently—not as simply the absence of work but instead as the presence of a Person?’
How amazing! And yes, ‘new life. it’s coming’! YES! the ‘restoring of the years the locusts have eaten’…testifying to this today! My husband and I had the wackiest and wonderful date…lots of laughter including being in the rain, forgetting our umbrella, helping a homeless person (or hopefully) and this crazy ride of a huge life transition that can so easily turn me in knots, but, by HIS GRACE…HIS GIFTS…COUNTING THEM!…WRITING AGAIN…DREAMING AGAIN…THE GIFT OF THESE MOMENTS…EACH POSSESSING GIFT…AND LIVING. IT! Open to Him and Alive to Him and living this name, ‘source of JOY’…it’s been so long, but He is restoring me through HIM!
I don’t know where you’re at right now, but it IS COMING…IT IS! Thank you for your blessings spilled here and most, for, your heart, but more, for just that fight to be His and to share it with us…and HOPE! and, well, I could go on, but I think you get it;)
THE BEST IS YET TO COME!!!!!!!!
The Wannabe Mummy says
I’m actually in tears reading this. Because of lack of rest I’m down on myself, defensive, tearful, not accomplishing much because I’m so overwhelmed. I so needed this to start my week. I need to chillax in the Lord and chillax everyday!
God bless you real good Holley, love from London, UK
Elena says
The last couple months the Lord Jesus has had me focus on the “learn of Me” part of Matt.11:29 because He is meek and lowly in heart I am to learn that from Him and on the heels of that I will find rest for my soul because the yoke He places on me that joins me with Him is easy and the load He gives me to carry is light.
I love the way you open your heart, Holly. It really ministers to me.l
SHARON MORGAN says
🙂 Bless you, Holley! What positive and inspiring words! Psalm 30:11 “You turned my waiting into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!”
SHARON MORGAN says
🙂 Bless you, Holley! What positive and inspiring words!
Psalm 30:11 “You turned my waiting into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!” Big Sunday hugs!
Char says
i was told by my doctor to “take it easy” after i had a mild stroke in midsummer, 2001. i did eventually take early retirement from my job with our local public library, which gave me more time to examine/renew my relationship with Jesus/God/family. it’s only been recently that i’ve realized that my trust in God to be my provider has led me to realize how little the material world really matters. a few years ago i told one of my sons in law, who asked me what i wanted for Christmas that year, that i already had everything i needed. about two years ago, when we had to replace a couple of very expensive items in our budget, i was able to put into practice that dependence on
God as my provider. The hymn, “It is well with my soul,” has also become my favorite.
Marilyn says
I have been weary. I work crazy hours, doing splits and picking up a couple of hours at another job 4 days a week to help make ends meet. As you know the economy isn’t all that great and my husband has not worked full time since June. Getting up at 4:20AM three days a week and working a total of 10 1/2 hour between the hours of 6AM and 9PM, then another day of 8 hours and the fifth day 3 1/2 hours. It doesn’t seem like a whole lot but I am 61 years old and a great deal of my day is physical.
So rest to me means one day a week where I am not commited to anyone or anything. I am free to do what I want or do nothing at all. The key word I think is FREEDOM. Not punching a clock. Letting the pressures of life go and focus on time with the Lord and relaxing.
Rosie says
Aloha Holley ~
You are always a breath of fresh air to me. Thank you for your thoughts but more, thank you for sharing them with us.
We too are looking for “rest”… gentle reminders of God’s provision long before they are needed.
Blessings always,
Sharon@HikingTowardHome says
You are hard after what I am seeking myself, to trust, to enjoy, and to focus on the moment. Sort of wraps well together with gratitude listing doesn’t it? I find myself asking God to help me remember the tiny moments, enjoying the detail of each one and enjoy it to the fullest. Resting in the moment and not getting over stressed about what I may see coming on the horizon. Not to sit on the couch… I am finding that the sitting on the couch is an enabler to my depression. To keep busy, focused on what matters, doesn’t give me time to wallow in self-pity and therefore I spend less time being overwhelmed and drowning in pools of depression.
Thank you for sharing this Holley!
Holley Gerth says
“I am finding that the sitting on the couch is an enabler to my depression. To keep busy, focused on what matters, doesn’t give me time to wallow in self-pity and therefore I spend less time being overwhelmed and drowning in pools of depression.” Yes, exactly, Sharon! So glad to know I’m not the only one who feels this way.
Cat says
I too am learning what resting in each moment means. God is bringing me through a place of renewed trust in him that has been shaken by a deep loss and some other very difficult circumstances. God is showing me how to enjoy and savor each moment with those I love and not to be thinking about what is next or jumping ahead in my thoughts or wishing that this or that would just happen now! But truly taking each day at a time and feeling blessed to wake up each day and enjoy life, breathe, laughter, love, the people closest to me, God’s abundant grace and the opportunity to be used by him over and over again.
Gigi Murfitt says
Thanks for the reminder of God’s perfect timing. I was just praying this week about making a decision to take a break from a few things to get some much needed respite. The thought of spending that time soaking in God’s love is what I look most forward to. My Dr. reminded me I need to focus on self care and that will speed up the healing of some issues in my joints. Thanks for your reminder of the need to take God’s rest seriously.
Our beloved Pastor Wendell Smith went home to be with the Lord in December and our church has been grieving the loss of an amazing man. But yesterday his son Judah preached an amazing sermon about allowing the grief but not turning off from life completely. It was a very encouraging word and speaks to many messages in this blog. I encourage you to listen when it is posted at http://www.thecity.org and it will bless you.
Thanks Holley for your amazing transparent posts.
Carolyn says
I am so there where youare. It is amazing how our Father works. I was speaking just a week ago to some home schooling moms about this very topic and solution that you have express. When I am where God has me I can rest because I can fully rely upon Him for everything that is need to accomplish the task He has given me.
Debbie says
Thank you so much Holley, for sharing your times with Him, with us. For helping me think about rest. It’s kind of like waiting, isn’t it? When we wait on Him, He doesn’t necessarily mean for us just to sit there and do nothing. 🙂 So when we rest in Him, we aren’t suppose to maybe literally rest and do nothing either. I find rest in Him when I’m thankful for what is right now, and allow myself to be content. God bless you as you rest in Him!
Gloria says
I had a terrible night of nerve pain and felt like skipping church this morning but we invited an old friend to join us. I didn’t want to bomb out on him so I forced myself to go. The message by our pastor at church and your “resting” words reminded me that I haven’t really let go to allow God to comfort me and find my peace and rest in Him. I tend to get caught up in the flurry of too many activities rather than focusing on the ONE who I am trying to live for each day. My peace and rest can be found only in Him. Thank you for the reminder. Your words are anointed by God. Please don’t stop sharing.
Kristen@Moms Sharpening Moms says
Sweet Holley…YOU serve up rest with your Jesus words…I celebrate presence with Him every single time I visit with you here and at your place. YOU are joy!
Holley Gerth says
Every time I see your sweet face I just want to hug you. Thank you for these kinds words, friend!
Betty says
Jesus went up to the mountain by himself to rest .
It sounds so easy to say just take it easy take lots of rest but as others say just laying on the couch doing nothing is not really a restl at least not to me as my mind keeps working to remind me to do different chores or what ever is waiting to be done.
.
I do find rest and peace in God when I do my morning devotions to start my day and my prayers at night for the days joy and blessiings, and rest for my self and others .
Holley I like how you describled how rest is dreaming of new things we can do in our life it renews our soul when we see what God has planned ahead for us .He will lead us if we ask . Thank you and I pray for all who need a rest in their lives
Love and hugs to all Betty
Daja says
I, too, have been pondering “rest” and what the sabbath really means. I love in Hebrews how it says that Jesus became our sabbath rest. That’s something I can breath all day.
I blogged about it a bit:
http://gombojavfamily.blogspot.com/2011/01/going-back-to-plan.html
Thanks for the uplifting post!
Fearless Mamma says
This is something I constantly struggle with. My husband is always telling me to “rest from my works”. I’m always battling to let GOD do the work through me, not in and of myself. Thanks for your words. <3
paula morehart says
Ms. Holley,
God has been telling me in similar terms to rest as well. “Be still* and know** that I am God.” -Psalm 46:10. Rest and stop striving in the burdens we do not need to carry. The burdens we weren’t meant to. May God rest your precious, thoughtful heart, Amen.
* Translation for “Be Still” in Hebrew is “ENOUGH! or STOP!”
**”Know” translates as ” ACKNOWLEDGE”
April says
Paula, That is awesome! Thank you for sharing those translations. I have never known this! Bless you.
Holley Gerth says
Yes, I had never heard those either! Thanks, Paula!
April says
Holley,
This is one of my favorite posts you have ever shared. I just love your kind and loving spirit. And how His sweet spirit is all over you. Bless you!
Jennifer LeBlanc says
Holley,
Rest is very similar to the concept I’m focusing on right now and that is to be still. I chose Still as my word for 2011 (http://livelifeartfully.blogspot.com/2011/01/still.html), only a handful of months after being diagnosis with a chronic joint disease. Mostly I want to remember to not get myself in a dither of anxiety over the future or my current circumstance. I want to dwell in His arms and on the fact that He knows what is good and right for me, and to just trust.
Tacey says
Holly your post not only resonated with me but amplified a concept that God has been teaching me for a year plus. I have been camped on the verse Be still and know that I am God and I have been grappling with what does this look like. Like you and so many of the other women I thought it meant physically clearing my calendar but now I know that it goes so far beyond that and is about my heart. Your post so blessed my heart as I know that I am not alone in my struggle to experience at a deeper level what surrender, trust and rest really looks like. Thanks for your authenticity!
Janet Belzer says
Holley,
When I think of rest, I think of the scripture verse,”Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. With work that is demanding,
And my Daughter Laura who has been my blessing from heaven each and every day is in
a high risk pregnancy, and both Elderly Parents with Cancer, I thank God for Rest with
My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,But Jesus suffered the worse of us all on the Cross taking all of our Sins to the Cross so we could have eternal Life. Jesus is indeed our Savior!!
Blessings and Love and Rest to all Sisters in Christ,
Jan Belzer Schaumburg, Illinois
Korri Beth says
I really never knew what “rest” meant. I might be off work, but my mind is busy. And that’s not resting! Thank you for this post and reminding me rest means relaxing, rejuvenating, reconnecting, and relationship.
Janet says
Holley–you are a blessing! I love your words–so encouraging, so thought provoking.
Rest to me means being at peace within your spirit and your mind, which will then bring a physical peace. Our source for rest or peace is our Peace Giver–Jesus Christ. This is where it begins. The world has no peace to give. To truly connect with God means spending time with Him, in listening to Him thru His written Word and talking to Him in prayer, then listening to Him in our spirits for instruction, direction, encouragement, assurance of His love…..This is real renewal and rest for me. Philippians 4: 6-7 says “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
KrisDot says
This is very refreshing and comforting for me, but for a different reason. I always fear being too busy. I’m not so much now, but I think I shy away from doing all that I need to or am called to because I’m afraid of becoming “one of those ‘busy’ people”. Never having any time to myself, neglecting quality time with my family, my kids growing up while I was busy doing something else, etc. But this helps me see that as you said, it’s not necessarily keeping a lighter schedule (though sometimes it might be), but more learning to rest in Him, whatever the circumstances. That makes me not so scared! Thanks! 😉
Lisa H says
Rest is when I can finally breathe! Its when I let go of the anxieties and fear and just breathe deeply for what feels like my very first breath. Rest is when I can finally say, YES I’ve given it to God-really! I can feel most at rest when I am outside in his creation walking the trails at a park all alone, sitting on a picnic table with the warm sun shining down on me. I feel most at rest when I am singing songs of praise to Him with our choir at church–the place I feel the safest and most calm.
Rest has been very hard for me to find. It has been very hard to let it go so that I can fall into His arms and let him hold me up. But I’ve also learned now that I have done it, this is the very best place to be!
Dawn says
When my son was born, my life changed. My life stopped, actually. I was pinned to a couch nursing a baby all day. I couldn’t shower, brush my teeth or even pee, because the baby would cry if I put him down. I couldn’t leave the house because I had to pack a mountain of stuff to go anywhere. Being still was so stressful for me as a woman who was always doing, always with people, always involved in something, always capable. The cycle continued and the depression took over. I struggled to look after this baby that I had longed for for. I wanted to give the baby away to a couple that wanted him. I wanted to die.
But I didn’t. I joined a group for mom’s with PPD. My husband and I joined a couples group. We learned how to settle in to the new life called parenthood. We both learned a patience we had never imagined – with ourselves, each other and with this little boy in our lives.
And I finally stopped struggling in the stillness, and learned to rest in it.
Cherry says
Thank you so much for this! My husband and I have been making steps to “slow down”, as well … and your thoughts here gave some new insight into what this means. Love these thoughts …
Elaine Marsh says
Holley,
Wow! What a revelation! You’ll never know how much I needed to hear these words.
I, too, am a dreamer and needed a redefining of the real rest. Trusting in Jesus and living out the dreams He has placed in my heart is my desire. You are a blessing to me.
Thank you,
Elaine, Sherman, TX
Lisa says
Thank you! So what I need to hear, especially today. Like you, Holley, I dont seem to be able to ‘rest’. despite being creative I’m constantly worrying, striving and getting nowhere. After a rough few years I’m hanging on to god by threads and due to major stress and problems at work, which has impacted my health again, ended up at the doctors today who has put me on sick leave long term (again) and recommends a different career ( I’m a teacher with teenagers who have severer learnign difficulties and behaviour problems). I read a reading on sunday about learning to trust God and he’ll supply us on a needs-to-know basis, rahter than my human need to know all the parts of the puzzle. I’m hoping that this time away from work will allow me to get closer to God and work on my trust issues and that he will help me learn how to really rest, and that AMAZON uk will finally get their supplies of Ann’s book in so I can read it as I’ve ben waiting patiently on it since before christmas, but they’r having problems with supplies to the uk. Thank you-you are such a blessing and gifted at posting the right things just as I need them x
Craig says
To strive and to rest. A journey with points arranged to see where I am now, where’ I’ve been, where I’m headed – and rest to renew. I heart these words of yours today.
Your question? For me, rest is to breathe in the mystery of Our Lord, seize it, place it in my heart, to know he is there, succeed or fail, and want his will above my own. To stop, inhale that mystery – and hold it a moment – then slowly – exhale – peace. Then do it one more time to really get it.
Thank you for this Holley
God Bless and Keep You
and Yours
Living the Balanced Life says
Holley,
What wonderful words. I am like you, find it difficult to rest. Even after a mental meltdown last year, I found it difficult to rest my mind. I am learning to rest in Him, but I still get in the way quite a bit!
Bernice
The Gifts of Imperfection- A Giveaway!
Kate says
Awesome post.
This goes right along with the verse I posted on my blog today….
Psalm 27:8…
What is rest? Good question. The verse I just mentioned sums it up for me I think. But it’s also more the act of handing it over to Him. All my stuff…the busyness, the strife, the straining, the pulling, the pushing, the tumult – to just experience the Lord and fresh revelations from Him.
Have a blessed day.
– Kate 🙂
Joy says
It all comes when we draw near to Him, when we rest in His presence, I’m so glad that your heard the Beloved’s call and you responded! Now you will arise with a new strength and vitality, beautiful & radiant! The winter is past and renewal begins to break forth with new ideas & opportunities will open up! Bless you Holley!
Rhonda Schrock says
You nearly took the words out of my mouth! Out of my heart, at least.
Of all ever-lovin’ things, if that isn’t the very word He’s been speaking to me these last couple of weeks…”rest.” For a girl who stinks at it, it’s a hard, hard lesson to learn.
And that whole dreaming thing? Well, I love that, too, but I find that dreams can get very heavy. They can weigh alot, those dreams of mine. So He speaks “rest” to a tired little dreamer who is trying to wait on Him.
Sandy says
Hi Holley,
I was like you, thinking that rest always meant, slowing down, stopping, even not bothering with anything. But I can rest in His word, feet up, cup of tea in hand to find the comfort that gives my soul rest. Or journaling, if that is what my soul needs to “heal.” Reading works by other authors, such as, Joyce Rupp, Max Lucado, Joyce Meyers, Holley Gerth etc. Whatever speaks to my heart in those moments, will bring back Jesus’ peace to my soul and I’m rested, refreshed once again.
May He give us the rest we need for our souls and the strength for our lives.
Blessings, Sandy
Nikole Hahn says
One Saturday I thought, “Blog or rest?”
I mulled that question over in my mind and decided to blog. Between reading, looking up verses, and enjoying a quiet Sunday afternoon, I didn’t let one minute go to waste.
My husband said, “You should rest.”
But I am.
Lisa Jean says
Rest. Pondering on this word – the word Trust comes to mind. Utter Complete Trust in Him. Trusting in His unfailing love has become like a spark in my heart – something new these days that stirs. I think the word trust is kinda thrown around as if a given – but then the reality of it living in me is something else – it seems that word has been tried in my life for years. And so many times I see where i have not trusted him and i have even told Him i don’t trust him – big heart issues there – how crazy is that not to trust the One who loves me the most – right? But it truly has been an issue. And now the sparks of reality of trust – and i’m finding in that utter trust – true rest. It’s getting brighter in my heart and in my life and I am grateful and I am finding rest. Thank you Holley.
glenna says
Rest to me means restoration, encouragement, studying the Truth…all given by Jesus as we just come to Him, lean on Him, and learn from Him. There’s nothing like sitting at the feet of Jesus because He has invited us there…bowing before Him and allowing Him to put His yoke that is easy around our neck and our hearts. His burden made light, allowing Him to lead us as we walk beside Him. Celebrating the song with Him that He sings over us when we get quiet enough before Him to hear His Song…Ah then the song continues all through the day and into the nighttime. I have found a hiding place from sore distress…Jesus Rock of Ages, cleft for me. from Glenda
judy says
Dear Holley , reading your message, it brought new flavor of spring new life to me , make me can taste the sweet of coming spring when we come to the end of Chinese celebration of activities to its spring festival , we do need the defination of what is true rest of our body and our soul , thank you for the inspiration you conveyed to us …
Ann Voskamp says
I love the dreams He gives you.
Love just you.
Alison says
Thank you for the great post!! It came at the best time!!! I wanted to share with you & all who prayed. My Husband was hired full time Yeah!!!
It wa a difficult time for us. But really strengthened us faithwise!
Please pray for my daughter Lydia. She is 23. Has a little boy who is 20 months. & is having a very difficult time accepting her role as a growup & all the responsibility! She’s made some pretty wrong choices lately & feels like a failure!!
Her ex boyfriend is a good daddy & they still care for each other. But are both confused!!
She has gotten a good job & needs to move. But doesn’t have the $$$. I would appreciate prayers for her, her son, & her ex boyfriend!!!
Praise God that He knows her & loves all three!!
Teresa Nash says
Thank you Holley…once again God has used your teachable and tender heart to find me right where I am 🙂 Rest and refreshment are on the way thanks to God’s Love expressed through your servant heart. It’s so good to know we do not walk this path, this life adventure alone…He is with us. Thank you for walking beside me/us in honesty love encouragement and faith, Holley! You lift me UP! Love You, Sister! 🙂
Joyce says
Dear Holley
I really love your inspiring truths that make me stop and say “yes thats right!” I am a missionary in South Africa, sometimes the pressure to “perform” becomes bigger then I realize having to make reports for back home, having feelings of “have I done enough” I was close to burn out when I got alone with God and found the rest was just what you shared its not inactivity its a quietness of soul when you realize you are loved by Him completely and he is not asking you for a report! He just wants you close at hand to be lead by His Spirit and enjoying the moment. Thanks for reminding me again what it means to really rest. Joyce
Ms. Cheryl says
I am beginning to wonder if I “really” know what “rest” is or means…. I think I am like Martha sometimes, concerned about tooooooooo many things. But I strive to be like Mary “after that one necessary thing”…. God Bless U Holley! 🙂
Sarah Harmony-Powell says
Wow, I literally just finished writing about something sort of similar to this. It is amazing the things we can accomplish when we let Him lead us! I struggled with putting my own selfish desires first before Him and therefore He put my gifting and passion on hold. We work so much better and can do so much more WITH Him then without. Thank you!
Paola Troz says
Beautiful as always! Rest in our hearts get us closer to Jesus indeed.
Love this new page.
Rose says
Each person’s way of resting is different. I know that I do to renew and refuel would be hard work to my husband. And his way of resting stresses me out completely. It’s about being the person God made me tobe, not following a regimented program of rest. Thank you for sharing this post today.
Melissa says
Oh, Holley, thank you for this. I just wrote a similar post for Faith Jam and then found yours….and your words spoke confirmation and peace to my soul.
Annemarie Vinci says
I think He gives both kinds of rest, physical and spiritual. Spiritual is the most satisfying to the soul. It was an amazing feeling the day I let go of fear and trusted in God with my life. He gives amazing peace and joy amidst any difficulty. It’s in the turning to Him and allowing our fears to go. “Whatsoever things are true… think on these things and the God of peace will be with you.”