The Importance of Rest

"Exhausted."
"Spread thin."
"Overwhelmed."
"Disconnected."
"Burned Out."
"Lost."

"Foggy."

These are some of the most common words that I hear people use to describe what life feels like in 2025. While us Americans are known for pursuing that "American Dream", we are simultaneously known for experiencing high rates of depression, anxiety, loneliness, divorce, and suicidal ideation.

So what's the solution? Should we just quit our jobs, stop tending to our family and friends, isolate ourselves from society, and let our minds and bodies become vegetables? Of course not! Though some of you are so exhausted that you're seriously contemplating this plan right now...

Throughout the month of November and December, this space will be focused on discussing the importance of rest:

Rest for our bodies.
Rest for our minds.
Rest for our emotions.
Rest for our relationships.
Rest for our souls.

And while there are endless books and podcasts that discuss self-care (including rest), my personal favorite source to learn about the importance of rest, is the Creator of our bodies, minds, emotions, relationships, and souls. Surely God knows what is best for His own creation! And when it comes to rest, He has a lot to say throughout Scripture.   After all, Jesus Himself invites all who are weary, to seek and find rest in Himself,

"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