A trite saying "enter into the rest of the Lord". We often think of that in the term "repose" or "restoration" and even "rejuvenation". Rest is something we seek when we are exhausted or overworked. Rest is something we hope we find in heaven after toiling here in our earthly existence. I've thought that too. This morning I had a new thought.
The story of Job. In one day his flocks were destroyed, his children and servants killed, his homes devastated, his life derailed. Then he was plagued with sores and sickness. Life as he'd known it was over. Finished. Buried.
Job 6:2 "If my sadness would be weighed and my troubles be put on the scales, they would be heavier than all the sands of the seas."
And he stayed in that broken place for a long time. Long enough to question what God had for him. Long enough to realize that God ultimately was in total control of his life and steps. "Whatever He wants to do, He does. So He will do for me all He has planned. He controls my destiny."
Understanding this truth, Job became more clear on God's purpose, his own meekness, and his love for God. And Job began to pray for his friends and their success. Things changed . . .
"When Job prayed for his friends the Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, the Lord gave him twice as much as before! . . . So the Lord blessed Job in the second half of his life even more than in the beginning". . . Job lived 140 years after that. He died an old man who had lived a long, good life . . . so the Bible says.
The rest of the Lord. The REST.
As Paul Harvey says, "And now, for the REST of the story". Enter . . . the REST.
Perhaps you are looking at the first half of your life or where you are right now and you are devastated at the losses. Perhaps your dreams have been stolen, your goals downright impossible, your path bleak. And you are tired. You want rest.
Perhaps the God of the second half has something powerful in mind for you - the comeback kid - and there is more coming in your life than you ever dreamed possible. Perhaps 2009 was filled with loss and pain and sadness. I understand. But I also know the God we serve. And I know the story isn't over yet.
Enter the REST of the Lord. Ask Him. Lord? What is the REST of my story in YOU? Through YOU? What chapters are YOU still writing? What's the REST? What can You and I do together in 2010? What is the REST? Pray for the success of your family and friends. Know that God loves you and knows you completely. God is on your side.
You may be surprised at the dreams God is already dreaming with you in mind . . . time for the REST you've so badly needed.
