“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

Tired

Meet Jinx, one of our neighborhood vagabond cats. Well, that was my name for him when he’d stop by. He was especially attracted to my bird feeders. There he’d sit, poised for action, head raised, still as a statue, focused, and that’s where he’d stay for most of his visit. It was evident Jinx felt in control of the situation. He’d keep an eye on everything around him, anticipating, thinking he was ready for whatever flew his way. The birds however, felt differently and after a while, Jinx would tire of standing guard and seek out a sunny spot to rest.

Oh my, how I’m a lot like Jinx! Always on alert, I too keep close watch on those around me. With my mind roused by what I imagine, I create scenarios of how I might need to be prepared to act. I actually fool myself into believing I have some sort of control and feel ready for whatever comes my way. Life however, feels differently. Honestly, “rehearsing disaster” and always being on guard is just exhausting. I’m tired of spending my days (and nights) that way. Any other “Jinxes” out there?

“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.” Psalm 91:1-2 (NLT)

We know that troubles can swoop in on us at any time. The Psalmist is reminding us that we don’t have to let it, or the anticipation of it, leave us frozen in place. We’re not alone. We have someone to go to, our Refuge. Trusting God allows us to release our worry and find rest. 

“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Matthew 11:29

I don’t know about you, but I’m still learning this lesson. What I am beginning to understand, is that the longer I live, and I hope the same is true for you, the more we experience what the Psalmist knew and shared. And, Ole Jinx? He prompts us to remember that when we step away from what burdens us, and seek out the Son, that’s where we’ll find a place of rest for our souls.