A Heart at Rest: Roadblocks to Rest

Robbers of Rest

Ambition, Anxiousness, Control issues, Driven-ness, Envy, Fear, Independence, Loveless-ness, Prayerlessness, Pride, Rebellion, Self-Centeredness, Stubbornness, Thoughtlessness, Worldly Cares.

His Promise of Rest

There Is Rest in His Presence

Jesus said to his disciples, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest" (Mark 6:31).

Moses said to the LORD, "You have been telling me, 'Lead these people,' but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, 'I know you by name and you have found favor with me.' If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people."

The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" (Exodus 33:12-14).

There Is Rest in His Provision

"The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The LORD protects the faithful, for the LORD has been good to you" (Psalm 116:5-7).

There Is Rest in His Power

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, 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).

There Is Rest in His Protection

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, whom I trust'" (Psalm 91:1-2).

The Most Notorious Roadblocks to Rest

1. Thoughtlessness

Worship: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual act of worship" (Romans 12:1).

"Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me. Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the LORD" (Proverbs 1:28-29).

2. Independence

Action: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice" (James 3:13-16).

3. Loveless-ness

Fellowship: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:34-35).

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality" (Romans 12:9-13).

"Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" (Romans 12:14-18).

Roadblocks to Rest Action Sheet

Name:

Date:

Personal Roadblocks:

Action for Change:

What I have asked of Jesus:

What Jesus has said to me: