I’ve been slowly relearning lately what it means to truly rest. Not just physically even though I’m learning that too. But resting in my mind. Letting go of my to do list of endless tasks and worries and prioritizing a quiet life and a peaceful mind.
I read a quote last week by Mark Batterson that said “I want to be famous in my home and with my family. That is the deepest desire of my heart.” And another quote by Paul Tripp, “to seek growth in spiritual maturity more than any other type of success in my life” and 1 Thessalonians 4:11 “Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands.” In these words I’ve been able to find real rest.
I’ve been reading a lot about prayer lately. Another quote by Mark Batterson I love says “If your prayers don't feel impossible, you're not praying big enough prayers.” Sometimes I’m afraid to pray the big prayers because they feel scary and possibly disappointing. But I forget that there is a whole other realm that is at work that I’ll never fully be able to understand. And I read that prayer and praise are different. Praise is thanking God for the miracle before the miracle happens. I’ve started doing that consistently and it’s changing me. It’s helped my mind rest because it’s simplified it all. I just have to believe that I have a Father who gives good gifts. One way or another, no matter what, the end is good. He’s not done until it’s good.
Maybe it’s just me but I’m learning I can’t just stumble into prioritizing these things. It feels opposite of how I’m hardwired. I have to ask myself often what kind of life I want to live, and spend a lifetime praying consistently over those things. I have to fight daily to choose those things. I’ve found choosing rest in Jesus is better than hustling through life. It’s the only way I want to live all of my days.