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. (Matt. 11:28-30 MSG).

Yes. Yes. And yes! I’m ready “to take a real rest,” how about you? 

Stress. Most of the time, I must admit that I approach problems in my own strength. I get stressed out searching for the resources I need, and I try to conjure up the motivation to tackle problems on my own. 

But recently I’ve been hitting a wall with my efforts. Even the simplest of tasks seem overwhelming to me–like writing a blog post or even planning a grocery list. 

Not long ago, I could listen quite attentively to the problems of my friends and family. But now, I seem to overreact to the smallest issue. I can feel the stress building in my head, as my blood pressure rises. I tend to want to run from commitments and from heavy conversations. And my mind refuses to consider organizational ideas–I’d rather watch a Hallmark movie

My counselor friend encouraged me let go of the self-condemning thoughts (Rom. 8:1). She reminded me that no one is perfect (Rom. 3:10), and that I’ll never live up to my own perfectionistic standards. So, I’m trying to embrace that truth.

Promise. I want to “learn the unforced rhythms of grace,” don’t you? I’m tired, worn out, and burned out on trying to do the right thing in my own strength. 

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites His disciples to bring our burdens to Him. And He never intended for us to take on the burdens of others. He wants us to encourage others to take their needs to Him, too. 

Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.
(Matt. 11:38-30 NLT). 

Photo/KarenJordan

Where do you find “real rest”?