Take It Easy

Lately, there have been several people that I have interacted with who have said they feel tired.  Certainly, I can relate to this.  It is not from an unusual workload, but just a feeling of fatigue that may not have a logical answer.  During some of my devotional reading over the last two weeks, I came across a passage of scripture that stood out to me.  It says: “Return to your rest, O my soul, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you” (Psalm 116:7).

I know we rarely use the word “soul” in our conversations, but it is used often in the bible, especially in the book of Psalms.  After doing a little research, I conclude that our soul is a part of the core of our being.  It is comprised of our mind and emotions, and it is affected by our decisions and interactions of daily life.

I believe this is why the Psalmist said that “I am awesomely and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).  Indeed, we are complex beings, and we have to be properly managed in order to avoid burnout or other conditions that can cause an unexplainable unrest.

However, when we really take a few steps back and look at our life, which includes our situations, thoughts, and feelings, we can usually identify the cause of the problem symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and fear.  These are emotions that can easily zap us of energy.  It could be the loss of a loved one, a divorce or separation, financial issues, and the list can go on. 

So how do we respond when it seems life has become overwhelming?  When the body is tired, the practical response is to rest, take it easy.  Likewise, this must also apply to the mind and the soul.  We must allow ourselves to rest. 

One of my favorite poems is Footprints in the Sand.  Most of us who have any form of Christian background have heard or read this poem which highlights the struggles the writer has experienced in life and the question of God’s faithfulness during those trials.  Not many of us are unable to relate to this writer’s question of God’s presence during times of difficulty in our life.  However, the end of this poem is golden: “The Lord replied, ‘My precious, precious child.  I love you, and I would never, never leave you during your times of trial and suffering.  When you saw only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.’”

Often, our strength and self-efficacy can only be increased by stepping back from tasks or concerns that are too difficult at the moment; tasks that are like trying to fit a square block into a round hole.  Instead of focusing on lofty challenges that have become overwhelming, it may be best to focus on simple tasks that are easy and more pleasurable until there is enough energy and vigor to focus on that which was once too difficult.  Sometimes seeking the assistance of those more knowledgeable in the area of concern is the best option.  Of course, looking to God for help is always the best option for those who have at least a little faith in Him, believing that He loves each of us and would never forsake us during times of difficulty.  It is helpful for us to remember that “…with God all things are possible” (Matt 19:26). He invites us to rest in Him.  “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).