Submitted by Victoria Robinson
The most effective spiritual leaders lead with a heart that has found spiritual rest. To do this PWOC leaders must be willing to examine their inner life. This involves examining priorities and understanding what the “rest of God” means.
This rest is not about inactivity. It is about a heart that is surrendered to God. Ministry is an overflow of that rest.
According to Francis Frangipane: “The Hebrew word for rest was “nuach” and among other things it meant “to rest, remain, be quiet.” It also indicated a “complete envelopment and thus permeation,” as in the spirit of Elijah “resting” on Elisha. God seeks a relationship where he can “completely envelop and thus permeate” every dimension of our lives; where He can tabernacle, remain and be quiet with us.”
Jesus modeled a life at rest with His Father. He encourages us to receive this rest in Matthew 11:28-29:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
#1- Come to me
As leaders we need to have a lifestyle of “coming to Jesus.”
This takes intentionality and consistency. Choose a time of day, a place in your home and have everything ready to meet with the Lord. A bible and maybe a journal can help our focus.
#2 –all you who are weary and burdened
When leaders are asked; “How are you?” all too often the answer is “fine. What if the Holy Spirit asks you the same question? If you are weary and burdened you need to be honest before God so that He can take the weariness and burdens from us and exchange them for His peace and rest.
#3- and I will give you rest
Too many leaders have a misconception that God wants them to take on more responsibilities, but the goal of the Christian life is to become like Christ. Once we understand this we can receive the rest He gives.
#4-Take my yoke upon you and learn of me and you will find rest for your souls.
We are to live a life of learning more about Jesus, and then we find His promised rest!
Rest is not inactivity but a surrendered heart. It is a holy habit of spending time with God. We are then able to hear from God and order our priorities. This results in a life of physical, emotional and spiritual rest.
The hymn “Jesus I am resting, resting” helps us know our burdens are lifted and we are leaders made whole by the rest of God.
Jesus I am resting, resting
In the Joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
