REST ON ALL SIDES

When an individual seeks rest, the recommendation is for them to get some sleep. So in that regards, rest is attained through effort. However, in Matthew 11:28, we read

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Therefore, we are introduced to another layer of rest which is not earned. Rather, it is a gift that is given.

It, therefore, goes beyond a need to sleep,
to encompass perfect peace-rest from the guilt of sin, the weight of the present and uncertainties of the future. One can however have rest in one area and lack it in another. The scope of rest should  therefore be “all round”.

This is captured in the lives of Joshua and King David when the scripture records: ‘And the LORD gave them rest on every side, just as He had sworn to their fathers (Joshua 21:44), and in 2nd Samuel 7:1 “When the king had settled into his palace and the Lord had given him rest on every side from all his enemies”

One may have rest from family battles but be engaged with difficult career battles. Or they may have financial rest but relational chaos. Until you receive rest on all sides, you will continue fighting some battles all the way. But bear in mind, while one dimension of rest comes through light or knowledge, true rest on all sides is not obtained from sleeping or effort, it is given by God and and so has to be received.

#sly