Happiness

Every moment of your life is a gift from God. Every laugh, smile, tear, trial, lesson, meal, relationship, sunset, and even sleep is from him. Rest is commanded by him; we are to sabbath, to rest and not work seven days a week. By resting we show our trust in him; we obey his boundaries as we protect our time and energy for everything he has planned for our lives.

Rest gives us time to relax and do fun things with others. It builds our relationships with friends and family. It gives us opportunities to meet our neighbors and make new friends. It is a time of recreation or a nap on the couch that refuels us for the upcoming week. Lack of rest leaves us grumpy and unable to focus, and it weakens our immune system. It leaves us vulnerable to mood swings instead of all the good that rest brings.

Have you ever been made to feel guilty because you were delighted over a gift, went on a nice trip, or even took the time for yourself each day for prayer and Bible study? Do not feel shallow or misguided if thinking about a vacation or the idea of reading your favorite book in a few minutes of peace and quiet makes you happy. Be embraced with precious moments from God, thank him for them, and trace your smile back to your Savior who wants you to savor the life he has given to you. While vacation is not the purpose of your life, rest and relationship are key components according to Scripture; therefore, you can thank him for special times, in places he created, with people he gave you to love and share life with for his glory. Celebrate rest!

Invitation to Prayer

Lord, thank you for times of rest—for a good night’s sleep, a Sunday afternoon stroll, and times that build my relationships and refresh me to love and serve with strength and kindness. Thank you for wonderful memories from the past and dreams for the future. Thank you for commanding rest and not endless work, and for promising rest to all who come to you.