28th Grade: Just Relax

School's out for the summer. So that means this teacher gets to relax. Well, after the two days of leadership trainings and the two days of technology professional developments I need to attend. But then, I get to relax. (Now if I was teaching summer school, as I've done many years past, I would say, "No I can't". I'd be getting my classroom set up and looking over lesson plans.) But this year, I can say, Yes I can". This summer, I get to relax. I'm really grateful to have time off before the next school year starts, but there's a little problem. I don't quite know how to relax. I tend to feel like there's something I should be doing instead of taking time to rest. Often times, I feel guilty for sleeping in or sitting on the couch and watching a tv show or two.

But I would take this feeling of unrest any day over the restlessness of trying to make an important life decision, facing a stressful situation, or dealing with an unexpected health issue. These circumstances can quickly consume us and erase any opportunity of relaxation or peace. That is, unless you have a Source to turn to that can give you the comfort and rest you need.

Whether you're looking to find rest from the stress of a decision, the shock of unpleasant news, or the rigorous nature of a busy career or lifestyle, God desires to take on our burdens and concerns and exchange them for peace and rest. All we have to do is believe that He can and that He will.

Here are some verses reminding us that God encourages our rest and relaxation.

Verse 1 Verse 2 Verse 3

No matter what situation we find ourselves in, may we find time to rest our bodies and minds, relax our busy schedules, and reconnect with those we love and care about.

Below are a few places where I've been blessed to find great rest: