One of the reasons I’m choosing to write a few words of reflection each day (or rather, night…) is because on my own, I really don’t do a very good job of spending the time my soul desperately needs with God. What I seem to do just fine is trying very hard to hold everything together, all the while feeling anxious that I can’t seem to hold everything together! Ever feel that way? I know it would feel so much better to let go of needing to control the few remaining corners of my life that I feel should be mine alone. So why is it just so hard?

When Jesus needed to get away from all the noise and confusion that seemed to be close at his heels toward the end of ministry he didn’t just try harder to do a better job at communicating, loving and serving. He chose to head to the hills – literally – to spend time completely alone with God. That’s where he found the strength to rely on God’s direction and love for him, and it didn’t just happen because it was easier for him than us – it was a choice. He chose to rest.

At least once or twice a year I feel the need to get away to find that place of peace and rest that I know can only come by choice. I usually head to the beach rather than the hills, but my intent is just the same – to get away from the distractions that seem to keep me from finding the rest I so desperately need and from spending time with the only One who can pour that rest into my heart.

I’ve shared this song by City Harbor before, but it speaks so perfectly to the difficulty – and the reward in choosing rest. And the beautiful thing about moving toward God in an effort to find rest in his presence and in the “promises that He has given me” is that He is always, always, always waiting for me there.

It’s my prayer that we find moments of rest along this journey together. I know it seems impossible when life is hard and hearts are heavy, but it really is a simple choice.

I will if you will. =)

So much love,

Shellie <3

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I Will Rest

City Harbor

I try so hard to keep it in
When I’m falling apart
Put up walls to preserve
My fragile heart
But I’m tired cause I know
That I’m not strong enough, strong enough

I make my plans
I try to prosper by the work
Of my own hands
But I stumble cause the truth is
That I can’t
And I grow weary cause it seems
The race is never done, never done

I will rest, I will rest
In the promises that You
Have given me
I will rest, I will rest
All Your goodness
And Your mercy follow me
They follow me

I will not fear
I won’t forget
That you are always near
Even when the road I walk’s unclear
In the waiting I’ll be still
And know that You are God, You are God

I will rest, I will rest
In the promises that You
Have given me
I will rest, I will rest
All Your goodness
And Your mercy follow me
They follow me

You’re my Shelter, my Refuge
Fortress for my soul
I will trust You
You’re my Shepherd, my Rescue
Forever my stronghold
I will trust You, trust You

I will rest, I will rest
In the promises that You
Have given me
I will rest, I will rest
All Your goodness
And Your mercy follow me
They follow me
Follow me