Written by: Karen Geldenhuys
Article source: JOY! Magazine
2025… Let the journey begin! This year, things should be different: instead of opening new diaries to jot down meetings, appointments, and to-do lists, the number one action we ought to take is… making time to rest! We tend to forget that rest is one of the very special blessings God favours upon us. He sets the example in Genesis 2:2-3 where He intentionally took time to rest. He was satisfied with the work of His hands and created a specific day to appreciate it.
Slowing down
We, on the other hand, rush from one task to the next, never sitting back, never simply just enjoying… Thus, taking a coloured pencil and circling possible periods of rest is a wise and a totally different outlook on the year ahead, as it helps us to see the opportunity for quality time spent in tranquillity and peace. A Friday afternoon, a summer evening with nothing but relaxation.
Planning for peace
Instead of focusing on work, work, and more work, one’s eyes and mind are now firmly focused on making the blessing of rest a reality. We may even decide to highlight all the public holidays, giving us a clear picture of possible dates to organise short, yet regular getaways with our precious family or a group of loving and loyal friends. What a positive way to look at life: setting goals to rest, relax, and rejuvenate first!
Inspired by Scripture
Thinking of the green pasture scene so beautifully described in Psalm 23 inspires us in wanting to create a life plan complementing just that. We find our rest in trusting in God’s attentiveness. Despite all the things we think we need and want; our true desire is to experience order and tranquillity. Allow the peace and calmness we find in Him, to be the source of inspiration for our plans in 2025. From this place of rest, we can focus on personal destinations and goals with a spirit of stillness, certainty, and serenity.
A scriptural invitation
There is a wonderful invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG), “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” With these words, Jesus stripped away the massive weight of expectation. He promises an easy yoke: love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength – honouring Him in all you do.
This article is featured in the January issue of JOY! Magazine, which is now on sale nationwide! Pick up your copy from any leading supermarket, or read a digital version of this issue here: https://joygifts.co.za/product/joy-magazine-january-issue-2025/
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Date published: 16/01/2025
KAREN GELDENHUYS – dedicated JOY! and JUIG! reader. Email karen@fleur.org.za
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only.
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