How to Rest Your Soul

Just as keeping our physical bodies healthy requires adequate rest, keeping our souls healthy requires allowing them to rest, too. When we are at complete rest in our mind, will, and emotions, only then will we be free from the tyranny of circumstances and people that upset us. Sometimes we face situations that keep our minds and emotions so tense that we can feel the weariness on the inside even if we are physically rested.

An easy way to rest the soul is to take a deep breath, get quiet, and focus on something else for a while. For example, you might say, “I am so upset about what’s happening with my son, but right now I am going to focus on the fact that God loves him, God loves me, and God is bigger than this problem.” If you are struggling with strife in your home, you might also choose to get outside and take a walk each day simply to remove yourself from a stressful atmosphere temporarily. While you’re walking, don’t let your mind dwell on the situation at home. Choose instead to think positive thoughts or to pray and thank God that He is working in your family and will bring peace as you follow Him. Sometimes when your soul is in turmoil, it’s a good idea just to give it a break and watch a good, clean, funny movie. After all, A merry heart does good, like medicine (Proverbs 17:22 NKJV).

A popular term these days is self-care. You can actually google “ideas for self-care,” and you will be amazed at how many you can find. Many of these activities could also be called “soul care” because they are designed to help you find peace in the midst of life’s busyness. But I would caution you against simply looking at a list and trying to work your way down it. Every idea isn’t right for every person. For one woman, baking bread might be restful while another would find that stressful. One would truly enjoy sitting on a porch alone drinking tea or coffee, while others would be bored with that. Only you can determine what would bring rest to your soul. I encourage you to take some time today to think and pray about ways you can rest and care for your soul. The Holy Spirit will give you ideas and lead you to things that will be genuinely restful for you.

If you are not used to resting your soul, it may take time and practice to learn to do so. Don’t get discouraged along the way. Remember that God will complete the good works He begins in you (Philippians 1:6). Just keep pressing on; don’t give up. Eventually, little by little, your soul will find its rest.

Prayer of the Day: God, help me find proper rest for my soul, even in the chaos of my everyday life. Guide me to the peace that only You can provide, amen.