Across the country, families are preparing for school to restart. It marks the end of summer and for many, the end of a more restful season. Scripture mandates rest as an important spiritual practice. How do we rest when school begins, as school activities ramp up, sports begin anew, etc? How do we find rest when the end of the year looms and there are projects that still need to be completed? How do we find rest when life feels chaotic?
Finding moments of rest in the midst of a busy schedule is perhaps one of the most difficult practices to establish. But it is well worth your effort. Finding quietness and rest will help you to achieve all that the Lord and the family ask of you. You have a choice, just as Isaiah told his audience.
For thus the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has said,
“In repentance and rest you will be saved,
In quietness and trust is your strength.”
But you were not willing, Isaiah 30:15
Be willing. Let me offer a few suggestions for finding a moment to exhale throughout your day or week. Establishing restful habits will go a long way towards calming your nervous system and finding peace in the middle of your busy life. I offer these in no particular order.
Practice gratitude. Saying “Thank You” to the Lord takes your eyes off of the to-do list, that which needs fixing, or anything that is causing concern. It sets your eyes on Heaven and immediately lowers your stress levels. More and more science is proving what the apostle Paul wrote to the church at Philippi. Protective peace comes on the heels of gratitude.
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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Make time to laugh and giggle. Watch a silly movie. Listen to a comedian. Listen to a podcast that will make you giggle. Tickle your children or your pet. Shake your body like a rag doll and laugh at the same time. Laughter is a great way to tell the devil, “Not today.” Laughing is good for your physical and mental health.
A joyful heart is good medicine,
But a broken spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
Worship the Lord with song and dance. This goes hand in hand with laughing and thanksgiving. It feels good to listen and sing to music that honors the Lord. You move your body as you give glory to the Lord who is the one in control. Worship like this gives your nervous system a break as you surrender to the One who made you, loves you, and is ever present.
Let them praise His name with dancing;
Let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre. Psalm 149:3
Establish healthy sleep habits. This means a routine that signals your body that it is time to rest. This may look like a cup of chamomile tea and light reading 30 minutes before turning the light off. Give your mind and your body a chance to unwind.
In peace I will both lie down and sleep,
For You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8
What might you integrate into your daily life to bring honor to God and rest to your mind, body, and spirit? Your list may not look like mine at all. The key is to find what works and do it.
Find whatever brings you a much needed exhale—even when school schedules ramp up, deadlines loom, or family demands increase. I know the Prince of Peace will meet you and bring rest.
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. John 14:27
That’s good news.