Your to-do list is a mountain. You collapse into bed thinking, “If I just push harder tomorrow, God will finally be pleased.” Hebrews chapter four whispers, “Stop. Rest is a gift, not a paycheck.”
“So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest.” (Hebrews 4:9-11 ESV)
Strive to rest. That sounds backwards until you meet Jesus.
Israel wandered forty years because they trusted chariots more than God’s promise. We wander in calendars and checklists for the same reason. The gospel says Jesus already punched your timecard. He worked six days, died, and rested in the tomb. Your job is to trust the finished project.
Verse twelve: “The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.”
It cuts, yes. But surgeons cut to heal. When Scripture exposes your pride or fear, it is not shaming you. It is setting you free. Let it operate.
Verse sixteen is your open invitation: “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace.”
The throne is not a complaint desk with a grumpy manager. It is a mercy seat with a smiling Savior. Bring the mess. Bring the questions. Bring the 3 a.m. panic. Grace is never rationed.
Block thirty minutes on your calendar. Label it “Sabbath sneak peek.”
No phone. No agenda. Sit with coffee or tea. Read Psalm 23 slowly. When your mind races, say, “Jesus, I trust You with this.” Then breathe.
What is one way you will “cease striving” this week? Share your plan in the comments. Let’s cheer each other into real rest.