Since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. (Heb. 4:1)

I love making lists. It doesn’t matter what kind: a grocery list, an errands list, or an evening to-do list after I return home from work. I love them all—as well as being able to cross items off as tasks are completed. Then I joyfully move on to the next list. An array of colorful sticky notes is situated in the corner of my kitchen “junk drawer,” ready and waiting for me to make the next list.

My affinity for lists reflects my struggle with wanting control in my life. If tasks are crossed off my list, I feel successful. If the opposite occurs, I feel like I failed and don’t rest well until I’ve accomplished something. The urge to “do, do, do” and be on the go is a battle I face on a daily basis. Somehow, I’ve equated my self-worth with how much I accomplish in a day.

Just like Jewish Christians were close to walking away from the rest offered to them by Christ because they thought something better was in store for them, I can easily find rest in what I accomplish—rather than letting go of my need for control. It’s only when I rest in the power of Christ in me that I experience his peace and put the to-do list away for the weekend.

List different ways you can practice rest.

Tricia Rife lives in Indianapolis with her husband, Adam, and son, Andrew. She loves taking regular trips to Walt Disney World.

© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.