Rest and Refresh

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I hope this doesn't contradict last week's post, but here are my thoughts for today. Yesterday, I was in the shower, well into my Saturday routine. I really hesitated to wake up early to get some miles in but, as I lay there, I thought maybe I'd feel better if I did get up so I decided to do so. I was tired and thought a walk after the week's run efforts would be good enough. I also thought after I did my morning tasks, I would have enough time for a little rest before leaving the house. However, here I was, still taking a shower, feeling very hungry because I had not yet eaten breakfast, knowing there was laundry in the dryer that still needed to be folded, and I was down to an hour before I had to leave. Tiredness caught up with me, and I (literally) cried out to God, "I don't want to do this anymore. I don't want to live anymore. I'm tired!"

Just like in a running routine, you need to make time for "rest days," however you define them; easy runs, alternate cardio or days off from being active, you need to make time for "rest days" in your life. Some days it just feels like there is ALWAYS something that needs done. I encourage you (and myself) to plan in a few hours every few days, or whatever routine works for you, where you do an enjoyable activity or simply take a nap. You must allow your body to refresh. 

"Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 (CSB)

"We live within the shadow of the Almighty, sheltered by the God who is above all gods. This I declare, that he alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I am trusting him." Psalm 91:1-2 (TLB)

"Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done." Genesis 2:3 (CSB)

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 (NIV)

On that note, I am going to take a nap. Have a restful Sunday and I pray that you are able to carry God's peace into this week with you. 




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