Longing for rest?
So the LORD gave to Israel all the land he had sworn to give their ancestors, and they took possession of it and settled there. And the LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had solemnly promised their ancestors. None of their enemies could stand against them, for the LORD helped them conquer all their enemies. Not a single one of all the good promises the LORD had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true (Joshua 21:44-45 NLT)
Are you hangin’ on and hoping your tough circumstances will end soon? Are you battle-weary and longing for rest? If so, you’re not alone.
I spoke at a women’s conference on the weekend. Numerous women shared their stories with me—stories of struggling with physical health issues or depression, wrestling with marital problems, or watching their kids’ marriages breakdown. Some of these women were battle-weary, worn out from worry, and wishing for inner rest.
Where does that rest come from? From filling our minds with God’s word and then living as though we believe it’s true.
God’s word resounds with promises of His presence, provision, and protection. It also reminds us that when bad things happen (because we live in a world filled with sinful people), He’s able to turn them into something good for those who love Him. Trouble is, we often forget those promises when we’re in the midst of tough stuff. Or we say we agree with them but then allow fear and worry to promptly override them.
Truth is—rest on all sides can be ours. None of our enemies—doubt, fear, insecurity, and the like—can stand against us, for the Lord helps us conquer them through His power and promises.
We are conquerors! Satan would love to make us feel like losers, but let’s not fall prey to his ploys. Let’s keep our minds focused on the truth rather than allow him to invade our minds with his lies. God gave the Israelites victory and led them to rest, and He wants to do the same for His people today.
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