We all share a need for rest. Rest is important to physical health and wellbeing, but it is also quite essential to spiritual health. In fact, the theme of rest is prevalent throughout Scripture.
Even from the beginning pages of God’s word, the importance and need for rest is clear. The very structure of the creation narrative helps highlight this significance. On days 1–3, God creates a different realm or domain of creation, and on days 4–6, He creates the solar objects and living beings to fill and live in those realms, respectively.
Day 1: Day and night ————- Day 4: Sun, moon, and stars
Day 2: Water and sky ———— Day 5: Fish, sea creatures, and birds
Day 3: Land and vegetation —– Day 6: Land animals, creatures, and humans
Structurally, all these days pair together, leaving day 7—the day when God rested—as the emphasis of the text. In this special moment at the beginning of time, all of God’s good creation lay before His presence in a state of rest.
Sadly, because of sin, the perfect rest Adam and Eve enjoyed with God in the garden was destroyed. The good new, though, is that Jesus offers the opportunity to enjoy that rest once again.
Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
Matthew 11:28–30
As you continue on your spiritual journey, be sure to take time to rest physically, but also find opportunities to enjoy spiritual rest. Sit in His good, sweet presence, and praise Him for the opportunity to be known as a son or daughter of God.
Looking for an opportunity to retreat? We design KMC to be transformational experience with great worship, inspirational messages, practical workshops, lots of laughter, and a ton of fun! You are sure to leave refreshed and refueled. Join us at Music City Center in Nashville, TN, October 19–21.