Sabbath Psalms - Rest for The Weary

Psalm 116:7 Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you.

The first few verses of Psalm 116 encourage us to place our faith in God and become aware of God’s mindfulness over all that we experience and do. It’s a psalm of assurance, so it is often a ‘go-to’ passage of scripture for folks during difficult times and painful moments.

I like today’s highlighted verse because of the ancient Hebrew word for ‘rest’ which is menukhah. It is a place of peace and tranquility, relaxation and stillness. It is the rest that weary travelers seek at the end of a long journey; it is the repose that most folks yearn when they get home from a busy day at work; it is the peaceful place we retreat to in order to replenish our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It is also the final resting place that faithful people seek when the leave the surly bonds of Earth and look into the eternal loving face of God.

Perhaps you’re presently experiencing some anxiety; maybe there are problems and issues in your life which disturb your peace; perhaps you’re constantly worried about the turbulent times we’re living in and are just looking for some assurance. Well, God can sustain us with the stability and strength that we seek, and the ancient words of the psalmist can encourage and guide us to the rest – the menukhah – we require today. This is also why Christ Himself once said to His followers: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Point to ponder: What things are currently wearying and worrying me? Am I willing to hand them over to God in order to find rest?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You know us completely and are aware of all things that disturb us. Grant us peace and grace, comfort and strength. In Your Holy Name, we rest and pray. Amen.

Quiet Times - Psalm 71:1

Psalm 71:1 In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. (NIV)

            The older I get, the more I understand my need for introversion. The world has become a frenzied, noisy, and greedy place that I find difficult to embrace or accept. I cherish quiet places and people, solitary moments and tranquil times more than ever I did. I look forward to taking refuge in God’s cloister of closeness, either by sitting in the back-porch reading, or resting on my bed while listening to classical music. Life doesn’t have to be hectic, filled with torturous timetables or burdened by trivial pursuits that consume my days. I seek God’s peace and look forward to His presence each day. I become a spiritual refugee in His arms; I rest my weary soul in His Son.

            I know that I have responsibilities, tasks, and obligations to fulfill. I understand the need to work and the attention that my vocation requires. I am aware that leadership involves supporting and serving people in many different ways. I embrace and accept all of those important things, but there is a deeper part of me that longs to be alone with God, to quietly surrender my spirit into His hands, and to purposefully ponder on what my personal connection to Christ really involves, and what it will become in Eternity. I am not seeking to escape from the world; I’m just taking refuge in the Creator of the World which is what I’m truly meant to be. The Bible tells us that the peace of God surpasses our understanding, so I guess I’m trying to find and embrace that peace above all else.

            It’s Monday and perhaps you have got a whole list of things to do, tasks to fulfill, and obligations to meet. I hope you succeed in accomplishing and completing all of them. However, may I suggest you add something else: take time to be with God on your own. Find a quiet place and rest in His presence. Seek refuge in His love and remain in His arms for a while. It will do you the world of good and be beneficial for your body, mind, heart, and soul. God bless you with his peace.

Point to ponder

Do I have a timetable for this week? Where can I place time to be with God?

Prayer: Lord God, You created us to be and not to do. Help us to cherish Your presence and to refresh our souls in Your quiet and abiding love. In Christ’s Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come and join us for worship on Sundays at 11:00 AM. You will be made most welcome 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s latest crayon drawings called “Fall Communion.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Communion.