The Beauty of God's Rest

Happy New Year, everyone! Another year has passed. I can hardly believe that we are now into a new year already. 2025 was a year full of ups and downs for many people. Some may have lost a loved one, health challenges, grief, others are journeying through life transitions, and the list goes on. Navigating through life each year often reminds me of conversations you usually have out in public, when you meet up with someone you know. You'll ask them, "So, how's life going"? And often many say in reply, "Oh, It is what it is", "I wish things were different," or, "People just don't understand." I do not know what the previous year looked like for you, but one truth that I want you to know is that Jesus, our Shepherd, gives you rest for your weary soul. When we go through different life events, it is important to lean into God's rest. Removing ourselves from the distractions of life, and shutting ourselves in with the Lord away from the noise. It can be so easy to get caught up in the lives of others we know, but I really believe more now than ever before, that God is calling us to draw closer to Him and to truly walk in His rest. 

So you may be asking, Noelle, what does walking in God's rest even look like? How do I apply this in my everyday life? Well, I'm glad you asked!😄 In a life that is so fast-paced, we often feel the need that we have to keep doing, doing, doing, and eventually, you'll feel burned out VERY quickly. The bible tells us in Genesis 2:1-3 that the work God had done was completed, and on the seventh day, God rested. Rest is what we need to feel relaxed and rejuvenated so we can recharge properly. That even applies to your job and in ministry. God never intended for you to play it fake. (Now, I know there are days when you won't feel 100% all the time, but "faking it till you make it"is poor advice.) You need rest, mentally, spiritually, physically and emotionally. 

God's rest can look like... 

• Spending Time In His Presence: Removing yourself from distractions of life, social media, and finding a quiet spot to read God's word. And let God speak to you! 

  
  

• Doing Bible studies alone or with friends: These are really helpful! It's also important to surround yourself with other believers, knowing that you aren't alone. Doing bible plans on YouVersion or having a hard copy bible plan is great! And reading devotionals, listening to sermons/podcasts are great recommendations too! ☺️

  
  

• Listening to worship music: When you are singing God's truth over your life, you will feel His peace. Worship is very powerful, and God certainly speaks through worship. 🎶

  
  

• Going on walks and doing workouts: The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 10:31, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." I encourage you to invite God in your daily routine. God also tells us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and looking after it is important (1 Corinthians 6:19). It is good for your mental health to take time for yourself by clearing your mind. 

  
  

• Surrounding yourself with Christ-centred friendships: Friendships are so important as believers. But it is really crucial to be self-aware of who your friends are. You need friends who celebrate you well, cry with you, encourage and build you up. But most importantly, draw you closer to the Lord and will pray for you. One thing that I have learned is not every, "God bless you" or, "I'll be praying for you" is genuine. Some may say that because it's the right Christian thing to say. But they carry no fruit of the spirit, poor heart posture and secretly want to see you fail. This is not of God. And it is not theright way to live if you truly love God. This type of behaviour is what keeps people out of church, by not wanting to join a community or people leaving the faith altogether. (You can read and study James 3:13-17 for further reference). So, surround yourself with friends who speak life and there, God's peace will be truly evident. ☺️

Now that we are in 2026, it's a year full of new beginnings not knowing what will come our way. Even though that might sound scary for some, I would like to challenge you to think and operate from a different perspective. Walk into this year with open hands and an open heart to step into all God has for you. Posture your heart in God's surrender and find true rest in Him. Psalms 23 is a good chapter for you to do a deep dive when you have time. I encourage you to take time to dive into it! God is a God of peace and rest. Listen to His still small voice, He is the one that guides you. 

Psalms 23: 2-3 says, "He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul." (NIV). 

When I studied this passage one thing really stood out to me, the Lord knows His role as a shepherd. And he knew how to make David rest when he needed to. And as sheep, they do not know what it needs and what is best for them at times. That's why having a shepherd is so important. It reminds me of how often we like to go our own way because of what "we think" is best and end up not knowing what we need fully. But I'm glad that we have a Heavenly Father who is our shepherd that puts us back on track! He leaves the 99 to find the one lost sheep who has gone astray. We are never too far gone to reach God's love and walk in His plan for our lives. We can truly rest in Him and it's beautiful to embrace. ❤️

Here's two questions for personal reflection!

• What areas are you trying to figure out on your own? Identify those areas and ask God for help! He will guide you even when you are unsure. He knows what you need at the right time. 😄

• What steps will you take to walk in God's rest?

I pray as the year progresses, that you will truly find God's rest and be open and available to what He has for you. We are the sheep of His pasture and He will always lead the way! 

God bless you! 

~Noelle 💕