I have just come through several weeks of extreme busyness in every area of my life. Well, come through is not exactly the right wording, because I still have much on my plate. Really with my work, it comes in waves. I can be extremely busy for a while, and then I go for weeks looking for things to do. At home and with my writing, I always have much to do. I am used to being busy. In fact, I like being busy. I like being productive and seeing things accomplished.

These past few weeks were different. I came out of that time feeling completely exhausted. I was so tired I could not sleep, plus my mind would not let me sleep. I was left completely drained mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I know most of what will be required of me in the next few months, so I knew I had to make some changes and get much needed rest. I knew the tiredness I felt could only be alleviated by my finding rest and being refilled by Him.

So often I have shared Deuteronomy 33:12 with many who have experienced emotional turmoil.

“Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders.”

To me, this verse is such a beautiful picture of God’s love for us as He closely holds us resting between His shoulders. Doesn’t that make you feel safe and secure? To be in the arms of Jesus? I knew I needed this kind of rest. I needed to get back to a place of balance emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. So how do you get back in balance? How do you get back to that place where you are not on edge or crying at the smallest things?

It starts with God. I needed to be sure I really was drawing near to Him.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8a)

Sometimes you need to evaluate where you are with the Lord. What are you doing to draw near to God? Are you studying His Word? Are you believing and acting on His promises? Are you sharing your heart with Him? Are you allowing God to refill you from what you poured out in His name? James tells us that if we draw near to God, He will draw near to you. God promises He is always there beside us. He does not move away. We are the ones. When we come back toward Him, we realize He has never moved. He is there, ready to meet us, strengthen us, and change us to be like Him.

I took my mind captive. I needed to make sure my thoughts were ones that led me to God.

“We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)

What is taking place in your mind? What lies are you believing that are keeping you from living in God’s truth? Are you allowing your thoughts to grow you in your walk with God, or are they leading you away from Him?

I spent one day walking, journalling, and praying as I cleared my mind of thoughts that did not need to dwell in me. I have been very intentional in these last few days to fill my mind with the truth of God’s Word and take captive those lies, fears and doubts that swirl around drawing me away from Him. Again, what is taking place in your mind?

I also let things go. I put aside the lists and for several days, I only did the things I had to do. I took some moments to read, to walk, and to just be. Will the world stop turning if you set things aside for a day and take a few moments for yourself? All the work will still be there, but with a bit of rest and refilling from the Lord, you will be able to come at it with a bit more balance in your heart and soul.

I can honestly say, I have gotten to the place where I feel balanced again. Pouring out for others is so good and such a blessing, but the importance of allowing God to replenish you is so necessary.

Be aware of your need to take time to be still, to be quiet before Him, and just take the time to rest between His shoulders. God will let you know when you are refilled and ready to move on for Him. Until then, draw near and be still with Him.

But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.” (Psalm 73:23-28)

In His Love,

Susan