Rest
By Isaac Bland--
November is a time of thanksgiving, when we take the time to remember what God has done, slow down, and spend time with our families. This is also the time of year when things can get crazy busy as we prepare for the holidays!
This is especially true for me this year. I find myself juggling school, church, sports, and Boy Scouts—all while applying to colleges and trying to earn scholarships. If you haven’t figured it out already, I am currently a senior in high school and looking forward to the next chapter of my life.
Often when I feel overwhelmed, I like to listen to music and/or go for a run. This really helped me during the COVID shutdowns. It allowed me to get out of the house, stay healthy, and release some pent-up energy! More often in life, we distract ourselves or make ourselves so busy that we start to put our relationship with God on the sideline (yes…I am a football player hence the sports reference). I am guilty of doing this very thing. At times I find myself spiraling with anxiety until the point I turn to God.
When I turn to prayer and scripture, God often reminds me to slow down and focus on Him. In Matthew 11:28, I find comfort knowing Jesus is with me and helps to carry my burdens:
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
As our lives get busier in the next few weeks, we need to remember to take a step back and ask, “Is my relationship with God my priority right now or is it something else?” Even if it is something else, we do not need to feel ashamed. Our world has hundreds of things trying to get our attention, so eventually everyone will get distracted by one thing or another. The important thing is that we are able to make sure that our relationship with God is still our priority. I do this by spending time in prayer, reading the Bible, and coming together and connecting with my faith community.
I pray God brings your family rest during this holiday season. I look forward to seeing you at church!