Rest, and be ye not Weary
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by
Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19.
I was thinking this morning how in Alaska they have six months of no night. It
struck me how difficult it would be to shut out the daylight and sleep as if it
were night, again and again and again. What a time of adjustment that would be
every six months for everyone!
We would need thicker paned windows to block the noise of the traffic. Darker,
thicker drapes to block the piercing, unending sunlight trying to force its way
in through the glass. Just traipsing off to bed (at night, during the day, who
knows?) Would be a struggle!
Can you imagine sending the children to bed after their nightly prayers at 8 PM,
and at midnight discovering them still laying in their little beds howling, "But
it's not dark enough to go to sleep YET, Mom!'"
I expect that is probably one of the burdens and also one of the joys one
receives, to live in such a beautiful State.
As I continued pondering about Alaska it made me think of the overwhelming
kindness and wisdom our Father in Heaven exhibits toward us. He, who created the
heavens and earth, knew where each of us would some day be living. I was
thinking how God has continuously provided for ALL our needs. Right from the
very beginning of Creation to this day.
Even to giving us twelve hours of dark. Enabling us to give our bodies and minds
the sleep they so need. So we might be physically, mentally, emotionally and
spiritually refreshed to serve Him.
How gracious He is.
One would think He had a motive! Oh yes! He always has a motive!
Sleep is so necessary for our well being both inside and out. If we do not
receive the rest our bodies naturally need, we suffer. Our bodies become weary
with the 'necessary doings' of this life. Our minds become sluggish. Our
attention becomes centered on the fact that we are over weary. Most importantly,
our wells begin to dry up Spiritually.
Studies show that when we are deprived of sleep, we shut down. Our brain refuses
to cooperate. We become easily irritated and irritating to others. Our immune
systems become more susceptible to diseases. In short, we break down.
Our children who do not get enough sleep find it more difficult to learn and
retain, which causes them to cooperate less in school. Most importantly, they
don't achieve their potential. Isn’t it the same for adults? Our bodies crave
for what God placed into them, the need for rest.
‘It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of
sorrows; for so he giveth his beloved sleep.’ Psalm 127:2
‘Be still, and know that I am God.’ Psalm 46:10
It's amazing how Science attempts to take ALL the credit for a God-given fact.
When I read these words, "But my God shall supply all your need according to his
riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19, it always surprises me to
realize, once again, how very simple ALL our needs really are, rest, food,
shelter, clothing, someone to love, someone to be loved by, and our God to
Worship. Basic needs that He, our God, placed within each one us, even before He
formed us in our mother's womb.
What a Loving God. Sleep seems to be the key.
The scripture above goes beyond our daily living requirements. It is much
deeper. The first thing I notice is the word "need" which works both singular
AND plural. Could it be that such a simple need could change lives as we live
them on this earth? What if we were ALL able to receive that which has already
been provided?
First we know that sleep is a basic God given need built within us. Second we
see that all He provides is "according to his riches." And third and most
important is that as Christians, All we have and need is in Christ Jesus. Day OR
night, sunshine or darkness.
So remember, when the days seem long and the nights too short right where you
are you can ‘enter into His rest.’ Simply close your eyes, call His name, And He
will be there for you to rest your head upon.
‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you
rest.’ Matthew 11:28
Then when the night falls, go to bed early. Say your prayers and be at peace.
‘When thou liest down’ thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and
thy sleep shall be sweet.’ Proverbs 3:24
My prayer for you and for myself is just this, From the sun coming up, To the
sun going down, May we find rest, sleep and tranquility. Which can only come in
Christ Jesus, Who causes the sun to rise once again.
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by
Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19.
Roberta Wilcox
jewels@ncfreedom.net