-November 7, 2023-
Good morning beloved, happy Tuesday,
“There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.”
(Hebrews 4:9).
The writer of Hebrews is speaking to Jewish believers directly, but it applies to all believers in Christ. We have rest in Christ. For us there is rest the moment we receive Jesus Christ as our personal Savior. Up to that point, none of us had rest of conscience because we were still in our sins. Rest and peace are intrinsically linked in Scripture. Because we have peace with God, we rest in the finished work of Christ.
Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30 the wonderful words, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” There is rest in Jesus now and for all eternity. We have rest spiritually but not until we get to heaven will we have our final rest. Even then, though, we won’t be idle in heaven. We will worship and praise the Lord and serve the Lord forever.
For the Israelites in the wilderness, they looked forward to their rest in the land of Canaan, the Promised Land, but because of their disobedience and lack of faith, all the adults who left Egypt died except Joshua and Caleb because as spies they had brought a good report and they lived by faith. The Bible tells us that the just shall live by faith.
In this world there is little rest. We live in a fast-paced society. People are rushing here and there, yet spiritually going nowhere without Christ. It reminds me of Christmas time, coming up shortly. So many have lost the true meaning of the birth of Christ and focus on Christmas trees, decorations, gifts, holiday parties, and celebrations. There is nothing wrong with any of those things other than Christ is removed by so many people.
When you believe in Christ, your focus changes for life on earth and life to come in heaven. Do you have rest in Christ the Prince of Peace? He is both the Giver and the Gift. Let us rest in Him no matter what our circumstances are. Our joy is in Jesus and life has meaning and purpose. We know why we are here and what life is all about. And we know where we are going to heaven to be with Jesus.
Have a blessed day resting in Christ. Stay safe and healthy.
Resting while serving, and serving while resting,
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 