REST: Living Anxiety-Free in an Anxiety-Full WorldSample

Rest as a Fundamental Need

In this second part, we explore the significance of rest for both physical and emotional well-being. Drawing inspiration from Luke 8:22-23, we unravel the concept of finding rest amid life's challenges by trusting in the constant presence of God.

Rest is one of the greatest needs of man. It is a proven fact that a man who lacks rest is doing great damage to his physical well-being. But rest is also for emotional well-being; a distressed mind will soon break down. Anxiety is one of the devil's greatest tools to destroy a man internally and externally. It is a cancer that subtly creeps in and grows steadily, sometimes unnoticed. Many battle with suicidal thoughts and discouragement because of anxiety. But God has not called us to live in anxiety but in total rest. Storms and challenges are part and parcel of life. While some dread and quake at the thought of it, Jesus clearly shows us what our response should be in challenging times.

In Luke 8:22-23 (NET) the Bible says, "One day Jesus got into a boat with his disciples and said to them, “Let’s go across to the other side of the lake.” So they set out, and as they sailed he fell asleep. Now a violent windstorm came down on the lake, and the boat started filling up with water, and they were in danger."

While there was a raging storm, Jesus was fast asleep, unperturbed, and in a state of total rest. This is one of the greatest acts of faith in GOD recorded in the Bible. Knowing fully well that God was on His side, Jesus took a position of rest. One of the reasons many are anxious is that they are more conscious of the storm than of the truth that God is on their side and present with them.

The Psalmist said in Psalm 23:4(NET), "Even when I must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff reassure me." This is the consciousness that sets us free from living in anxiety. We are at total rest when our hearts are set on the truth that God is with us and His presence is stronger than any storm of life.