Last week, I talked about using new tools in Christ to break strongholds and win the spiritual battle we ALL face. Part of the victory is having peace in the battle! The Holy Spirit is inviting us to enjoy true, deep rest with Him, in order to win your battle. It’s an invitation the world won’t–and can’t–offer. Instead, the world tells us to win others’ approval and meet their expectations. If that’s the case, we really never accomplish enough to deserve to slow down and be restored. Sadly, that is how many of us act, including ME! There is deep peace to be found in God’s rest, and true rest comes only in His presence. So, stop running so hard, pause and let God quiet your heart. Believe that YOU are enough, and you’ve always been enough–because God loves you. To win your spiritual battle and break strongholds, you need to look at what you are allowing into your heart that steals joy, and steals connection with God. Surrender your whole heart and find that you can love God more than your sinful tendencies and temptations. God wants all obstacles removed so that you can have connection with Him.
Hebrews 4:1-2 (NIV)
1 Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. 2 For we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed.
So, What… for This Week?
What worries weigh on you? What responsibilities or tasks get in the way of your rest? Think of the last time you felt truly rested. Read ALL of Hebrews 4 and be silent for 5 minutes. In this quiet, what is Holy Spirit teaching you about resting in Jesus? What next steps is he calling you to take?