In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities, ambitions, and endless to-do lists. But what happens when God intervenes and calls us to rest? This divine pause can be both challenging and transformative, offering a profound opportunity to reconnect with our true selves and with Him. I had to explore the beauty and purpose behind those moments when God made me rest and discover how to embrace this sacred gift with an open heart and mind.

Six months ago, I had a total knee replacement.  I went into this surgery thinking I would recover easily and quickly like I usually do, though it didn't quite go like that.  What I didn't realize is that this was one of the top five major traumatic surgeries you can have, and my recovery was going to be anything but painless and quick.  I fought hard to get back to my office and what I thought I should be doing.  My leg wouldn't tolerate sitting in the chair and my body was recovering from trauma so it wanted to sleep, rest, and recuperate.

MY MIND WAS AT ODDS WITH MY BODY!

I struggled, fought, felt guilty, and even told myself I was just procrastinating!  Yet, none of that was true.  After a couple of months, I stopped fighting and telling myself what I wasn't or should be doing, and started listening.  I realized after praying, and listening, this was a time to "pause" and reflect on exactly what I was doing, and did I need to make yet another change in my life.  Of course, just about when I decided to do this, I got the dreaded Covid again and had to rest.

Recognizing the signs that God is calling you to rest can be crucial for maintaining spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Here are some common signs that might indicate it's time to pause and rest:

1. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling constantly tired, even after a full night's sleep, can be a signal that you need to slow down and rest. It's a reminder to take care of your body and spirit.

2. Increased Stress and Anxiety

Heightened stress and anxiety levels can be a sign that you're overextending yourself. God might be nudging you to find peace and solace in Him.

3. Illness or Health Issues

Frequent sickness or health problems can be a wake-up call to prioritize rest and self-care. Your body needs time to heal and rejuvenate.

4. Loss of Joy and Passion

When activities that once brought joy and fulfillment start to feel burdensome, it may be time to take a step back and recharge.

5. Difficulty Hearing God's Voice

If you find it hard to hear God's guidance or feel disconnected in your prayer life, it might be a sign that you need quiet, undistracted time with Him.

6. Irritability and Short Temper

Being more irritable or losing patience easily can indicate burnout. It's a signal to slow down and seek peace and rest in God's presence.

7. Lack of Productivity

Struggling to stay focused or productive can be a sign that your mind and body need a break. Rest can help restore clarity and efficiency.

8. Neglect of Personal Relationships

If you notice you're neglecting relationships with family, friends, or even your relationship with God, it might be time to pause and invest in these connections.

9. Feeling Overwhelmed

A sense of being overwhelmed by life's demands is a clear indication that you need to step back, breathe, and rest.

10. Circumstantial Obstacles

Sometimes, circumstances such as canceled plans, delays, or unexpected free time can be God's way of providing you an opportunity to rest.

11. Scriptural Reminders

Coming across Bible verses or teachings that emphasize rest can be a divine reminder to heed this important aspect of spiritual discipline.

12. Inner Promptings

A persistent inner feeling or sense that you need to slow down can be the Holy Spirit urging you to rest and recharge.

13. Nature and Creation

Observing the natural world and its rhythms can be a gentle reminder of the importance of rest and renewal, as even creation itself follows cycles of rest.
Recognizing these signs and responding to them by taking time to rest can help restore balance and find a deeper connection with God. Remember, rest is not a luxury, but a necessary part of a healthy and spiritually fulfilling life.

So, next time you're feeling like you're trying to walk through mud, or pushing on the door so hard it's exhausting, take a moment to reflect and see whether it's time to embrace a Divine pause, rest, and see where God leads you next!

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