Rest for Your Soul

Psalm 31:19-20 (MSG) What a stack of blessing you have piled up for those who worship you, ready and waiting for all who run to you to escape an unkind world. You hide them safely away from the opposition.

Before Adam and Eve sinned, they walked naked in the Garden of Eden, unaware or affected by their nudity. They were surrounded and covered by the glory of God. There was no self-consciousness to be found in them. The only thing that completely enthralled them was their relationship with the Lord and the awareness of His presence. Once the enemy got their attention, they took their eyes off God and placed them on themselves. The focus changed to what they could gain instead of what they had, and they were willing to sacrifice everything to get it. Sin then separated them from His presence and caused them to realize their nakedness and depravity without Him.

Today we have so many opportunities to chase after meaningless, carnal desires to fulfill a spiritual need. Without the presence of God in our lives we too are naked, fearful, and discontent. Regardless of how blessed we are, there's no lasting satisfaction when we are outside of His will. You may consider yourself to be a good person and even a great Christian, but a deeply meaningful and fulfilling relationship can only be attained with time spent with someone. We can't say we truly know God yet never have time to passionately pursue Him. The relationship you may have had last year, month or even last week becomes stale if it's not rekindled on a daily basis. 

We are so fortunate that we have a Father who desires time with His children. He's not far away watching as we stumble through life, but He wants to have an active part. Now it's up to you to invite Him into the details as you spend time studying your Bible, praying, worshipping, listening, and receiving.

Determine to make Jesus your focus and priority and give Him the amount of time He needs to transform your heart, hold you tight and heal your wounds. That's not a 5 min prayer, but it comes from setting time aside, waiting on Him as you tarry in His presence. That's where you'll find rest for your soul and the directions you need to get to where He's calling you to be. 

Psalm 16:11 (ESV) You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Exodus 33:14 (ESV) And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”