A Summer Devotional: God, You, & the Ocean BlueSample

Unplugging With Jesus

When was the last time you felt rested? And when was the last day you had nothing to do on your calendar?

Summer is the perfect season to rest, but it can also be full of new opportunities and a busy social calendar. While summer pool parties and barbeques are a great thing, only Jesus can give us the true rest that our souls need.

Rest is a gift from God. God knew we would struggle with rest, which is why he made it a command to observe the Sabbath and a day of rest throughout the week.

I used to get burned out at work, which is why I observe at least one Sabbath day every weekend. Even throughout the week, I pay attention to how I’m feeling and I set aside intentional time to rest if I’m feeling worn out. I have a tendency to cry for no reason when I’m tired, so when the tears come, I know I need to rest with Jesus.

God rested on the seventh day after he created the heavens and the Earth, and even Jesus rested by spending time alone with God.

We all need alone time with Jesus, but this requires us to say no and unplug from the world around us.

It’s okay to say no to demanding bosses or to your friends who want to hang out. Sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself is to say no to others so you can sit at the feet of Jesus and get the rest you need.

How can you take extra time this week to get away and sit with God?

Take advantage of the long summer days by spending more time with Jesus. Leave your cell phone behind and embrace the solitude of nature and God’s presence around you.

Prayer

God, thank you for the gift of rest. I surrender my burdens and calendar to you. I pray you refresh me and give me rest today. May your peace wash over me as I sit in your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.