The Art of Relaxing vs The Art of Resting: Finding Balance in a Busy World

Resting is not the same as relaxing, and as a Christian believer, you should always be aware of the latter when it comes to waiting upon God. Knowing the difference is crucial, lest you fall into the same trap as Samson, the mighty judge who let his guard down and suffered a premature dismissal from his divine calling.

Samson, the son of Manoah, had everything going for him – a godly upbringing, incredible strength, and a clear calling from God (Judges 13:5). Yet, it was his ignorance in this area that led to his downfall. He took his calling for granted and embraced the deceitful art of relaxing before God, rather than resting and waiting upon Him.

Resting is waiting upon God, trusting in His perfect timing and plan. It’s not about doing nothing, but about being still and knowing that He is God (Psalm 46:10). In contrast, relaxing can be a subtle form of escapism, distracting us from the very purpose God has for our lives.

The story of creation in Genesis 1 illustrates this beautifully. After God created the heavens and the earth, He rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3). It wasn’t a day of relaxing, but a day of resting, sanctified by God as a holy day.

As Christians, we’re called to enter into God’s rest, just like Jesus did (Hebrews 4:10). Let’s not confuse resting with relaxing; instead, let’s prioritize waiting upon God, trusting that He will renew our strength and guide us through life’s challenges (Isaiah 40:31).

Let’s learn from Samson’s mistake and choose to rest in God’s presence, rather than relax in our own strength. May we be like Mary, who sat at Jesus’ feet, resting in His presence, rather than Martha, who was anxious about many things (Luke 10:38-42).

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, forgetting that our bodies and minds need time to recharge. But what exactly is the difference between relaxing and resting? Are they interchangeable terms, or is there a deeper meaning behind each?

Relaxing is often associated with activities that bring us joy and calmness, like reading a book, watching a movie, or taking a leisurely stroll. It’s a way to unwind and de-stress, but sometimes, it can be a form of escapism. Like King David, who often turned to music and worship to soothe his troubled soul (Psalm 23:4), we can use relaxation as a way to temporarily escape our worries.

On the other hand, resting is a deliberate act of surrendering to God’s presence and allowing Him to rejuvenate our souls. It’s not just about physical tiredness; it’s about acknowledging our limitations and trusting that God is in control. Jesus, our ultimate example, often withdrew to quiet places to rest and pray (Mark 1:35). He didn’t just relax; He rested in His Father’s presence.

The words of Jesus encourage us .. “come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). This verse highlights the importance of resting in God’s presence, trusting that He will refresh and rejuvenate us.

In conclusion, while relaxing can be a great way to unwind, let’s not forget the importance of resting in God’s presence. As Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” May we learn to rest in His presence, trusting that He will renew our strength and guide us through life’s challenges.