Choose Rest
Stewing, like a pot
Of chili on
The stove,
Over a decision that
I just could
Not seem
To make.
–
It wasn’t a big
Dilemma or
Even something life changing,
Just a simple, everyday, decision
That somehow
Had me
Stuck.
–
So I whispered
A prayer under my breath
And asked Jesus
What to do.
–
And then it happened
(and I love it when it happens.)
His voice came clear and
Firm and
Spoke right
To my heart.
–
He said, “choose rest.”
Hitting me like
Cold mountain air
Awaking me from
My dizzy-eyed stupor.
–
Ok, I thought,
Let’s look at
This again.
And all of a sudden,
It was plain.
The way forward
Was clear,
And I felt free.
I had permission
To choose rest
–
The funny thing is
This message has
Lingered and
Hung around in
My head for a while
And has become my
Go to
When I can’t decide.
–
I am learning I
Am free to
Choose rest because
Of what Jesus
Has done for me
On that cross
On the hill.
–
Spreading out his arms
He covered me with
His blood
And love and grace
And took care
Of everything,
–
And now
I don’t have to
Earn a thing.
I am already
Valuable, loved,
And have purpose
I have a place
Next to Him.
–
And the best part is
I am finding
Treasure there,
In the rest.
It’s the place
I can hear
Him best.
–
When my heart is
Quiet and I draw near
Confusing things
Seem to clear.
–
Thank You Jesus
You know best
And for teaching me
To choose rest.
–
Psalm 62:5
Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him
–
Psalm 116:5
Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you
-.
Matthew 11:28-30 The Message (MSG)
28-30 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”