Working for Rest

                When I first moved out on my own, I remember the first time I felt overwhelmed with the responsibilities of adult life. I did my best to save as much as I could while I was in college in order to pay off my loans when I finished school, but after paying bills and putting what I thought was a reasonable amount of my paycheck into my savings, I was left with only about ten dollars for food for the week. One day I came home and was excited to see that I had some mail until I opened up a property tax bill for my car. I did not know at the time that a state could charge you taxes for owning a car. I felt so betrayed by the world and all I wanted to do was crawl into my bed and hide from the letter I had just opened. I thought that this feeling must go away at some point as you get older, but I recently spoke with my mom who described having the same feeling because of a series of events she had just experienced. I think we all have times we would really just like to run into the arms of a loving parent and let all of our troubles disappear.

                This is how I imagine the “rest” that Hebrews 4 describes feels like. In this chapter, the writer explains that we are working in our lives toward the rest that the Lord will provide us when our life is done. In this life we must continue working to keep ourselves from disobedience. We are not left stranded to be tossed about the waves of life, however. The author comforts us with this verse: “For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the ideas and thoughts of the heart. No creature is hidden from Him, but all things are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give an account.” When feeling betrayed by adulthood, it is good to know we can take comfort in the promises of God.

                Do I turn to God’s promises when I feel taken advantage of, or do I seek my own revenge? How could the Word of God help keep me from disobedience? Do I believe that God will keep his promises for justice and rest?

                Lord, please remind me of Your promises in times of need. Help me to remember that Your loving arms are always open to Your children. Amen.