Fast Day 6: Soul Rest

Who doesn’t feel weary and overburdened, like these oxen, at times? Spending time fasting and praying can feel like a rest, a respite, an intimate sojourn with the Lord of the Universe.

Come to Me, all who are weary and overburdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11: 28-30

It is not hard to feel overwhelmed in the midst of modern life! But the comfortable burdens that God promises us are good news, and we can see that the strengths He gives us can be used to handle those burdens. We also know that when He says to learn from Him, it is for far more than just an easier day-to-day life. He teaches us to move forward into His world with the confidence that He has our back!

As we take Him up on the soul rest that He offers, our lives will become less stressed, but also more freed and we will become more like Him, gentle and humble in heart. Know that you will experience His freedom, because it was for true freedom that Christ set us free (Galatians 5:1).

Imagine your soul at rest. Imagine having His gentle and humble heart: no heart patters when unwelcome surprises appear, no wear and tear from awkward, uncomfortable or dominating relationships, no wondering if He is really there, no need for indignation or taking offense, no feeling alone or unwanted, and no bitterness raging in your gut.

What are you most weary about in your life?

Turn your burdened shoulders and your jaded thoughts towards Him. See the pain He holds for you in His tender eyes and believe His desire and need to give you true rest from your burdens. Spend time with Him and allow Him to comfort you during this time of fasting and prayer.

Humble Jesus, adjust my attitude about my responsibilities so I can see the truth about why I am burdened over them. I want to learn from You and find Your gentleness and humility by seeking Your true rest. Foil any worldly master plan of attack I might try. Meet me in my fast. I thank You for that soul rest that communicates the reality of Your love so tenderly to me and through me to others in my life. Amen.