We are limited human beings.
We are not God.
Hence, we need to rest!
Chronic stress wears us down physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
We may find that we are more withdrawn from others, more withdrawn from God, or more irritable. Having low mood, not wanting to go out, etc might all be manifestations of chronic stress that has led to burnout.
Each time I had a long period of prolonged stressful period at work, which was followed by a 1-2 day break… I would always end up falling ill and not being able to fully enjoy my break. Looking back, I see that this was a physical sign of reaching my human limitations and that has led to being burned out physically.
”Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.“
Isaiah 40:31 NASB1995
When we wait on the Lord, rest in His Word and in His peace, through Him we will have the strength to carry on day by day.
Another verse I like is Psalm 23
”He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.“
Psalms 23:2-3 NASB1995
When I reflect on this verse, I think of how He guides us, leads us to a peaceful and safe place to rest , and restores my soul.
When I don’t take the time to rest, I inadvertently find myself grumbling against the situations in my life, which is grumbling against God. Being able to take a step back , or schedule rest, then allows for time to be spent meditating on Scripture, and prayer.
It is an amazing how God is gracious – and how only He is able to restore my soul.
