Resting in the Lord (from 31 Days of Encouragement – Miriam)

“THOSE WHO LIVE IN THE SHELTER OF THE MOST HIGH WILL FIND REST IN THE SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY.” Psalm 91:1

Our family took a vacation to Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, one summer for a much needed time of rest and fellowship with family and friends. Just as we need rest from the day-to-day pull of life’s busyness, we also need spiritual rest. When we rest our bodies, our strength is renewed for life’s physical challenges. When we rest in the Lord, we are renewed for our spiritual battles.

Our fellowship was sweet that week. Why? Because we spent time enjoying the presence of people we love. Remember our key verse says, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” When we “live in the shelter” or spend time with the Lord and rest in His presence, the trials that come our way are much easier to handle.

Just before we left on this particular vacation, we had a few “trials” come up in the form of unexpected repairs to our home. In the past I would have been anxious, relying on my own strength to get me through. However, because I had been truly seeking to rest and fellowship with my Heavenly Father more, I was not anxious during this time. Even though I did not expect this trial, my Heavenly Father knew it was coming. He allowed me to rest in the knowledge that He is in control. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus spoke these words:

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.”

Jesus wants us to come to Him with our concerns and problems. He is offering to take them on Himself. He wants to lift the burdens that I keep trying to hold and “manage.” I don’t know about you, but I would rather rest in the Lord, fellowship in His presence, and allow His peace to control my life:

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, Whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Isaiah 26:3

Not only can we rest in Him, but we can count on Him to be there and be strong. Isaiah 26:4 says, “Trust in the Lord always for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.” He’s our Rock! He’s immovable and unshakable. The knowledge that God is trustworthy and immovable allows me to rest in Him without a doubt.

How about you? Are you able to rest in the Lord when trials come your way or do you try to take control? Do you keep your eyes and thoughts fixed on the Lord, or do you get distracted and pulled away by your trials?