The Rest of the Story

Today’s blog corresponds to one of the points from Andy’s message at the Family Life Meeting on Saturday Night. If you didn’t have a chance to hear the message you can download soon here.


We can enjoy peace in busyness through valuing rest over idleness.

SIGNS THAT YOU MIGHT NEED WORK IN THIS AREA:

• You can get irritated (or worse) when something comes between you and your ‘down time’ interests
• You have regular TV shows (or websites you visit), but no meaningful spiritual study interests
• Your sense of peace is very affected by your immediate experiences or environment.

Vision from God’s Word:

Romans 14:17-19 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. 19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

Enjoying Peace Through Application:

1. How do you define rest? Now compare it to Andy’s definition of
idleness: indulgent relaxation. How do they compare? How do you know if
your relaxation is indulgent?

2. Evaluate your last seven days. Did you have a day which prioritized resting
from your work? If not, why not? If you did, are you consistent? Do you
have a biblical conviction regarding rest?

3. List your ‘down time’ interests (things you do other than your
responsibilities.) For example; time spent on the internet, email, golf,
photography, gardening, video games, working out, movies, concerts,
television, reading, following sports teams, phone calls, home repair, etc.
Go through the list and ask:
- Am I refreshed by this activity?
- Am I more ready to resume my work after engaging in this activity?
- Can I do this activity with a clear conscience?
- Does this activity unduly isolate me from family and friends?
- Does this increase my awareness of or gratitude to God?

4. Do your entertainment choices enrich your life? What changes can you make
so they are more enriching?

5. For some people, resting requires more faith than working. If this is you, have a friend/spouse review the time you give to sleep, physical activity/exercise, and rest. What changes do you need to make? How can your friend/spouse help you make those changes?