WRITTEN BY CHERYL NEMBHARD

What if I told you that rest makes you stronger? Would you believe me?

I can say honestly that, before this Summer, I would not have believed myself on that point. Why? Because I always associated the idea of rest with weakness or depletion.

In today's hustle culture, the value of rest is often overshadowed by our endless pursuit of productivity and success. We think that if we keep pushing, keep striving, and keep accomplishing bigger and better things, we’ll show the world (and ourselves) how truly strong we are.

But the sad thing about this unfortunate truth is that many of us are never satisfied. Our accomplishments are never enough, and so we find ourselves in an endless cycle of driving hard to produce more and more, often to the point of burnout. In our attempt to demonstrate our superhuman power, we end up settling for a superficial ‘strength’ that leaves us empty and depleted.

This is not God's plan for us. Drawing from rest to be renewed in strength is the only way to counter this chaos.

In our attempt to demonstrate our superhuman power, we end up settling for a superficial ‘strength’ that leaves us empty and depleted.

A Gentle Invitation

In our continued series on Rest, it is our hope that you would experience a reframing of thought—a shift in perspective around the concept of rest. My prayer for you is that you would accept Jesus’ gentle invitation:

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30, The Message)

Rest for Body, Mind, and Spirit

Our bodies are intricate designs, divinely created to do incredible things. Part of our design is that our bodies require rest for the purpose of recovery and repair.

In the most practical way, rest plays a vital role in muscle repair, tissue regeneration, and immune system fortification. Quality sleep, relaxation, and restful periods allow our bodies to heal, recover, and ultimately become stronger.

Just as our bodies need rest, our minds also require downtime to process, organize, and recharge. Engaging in stillness, times of prayer or meditation on God's word can help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost creativity. A well-rested mind is a resilient mind, better equipped to face the challenges of the day.

Embracing rest as strength will lead us into a deeper connection with God and a strengthened spiritual life. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of rest on the Sabbath, setting aside a day, just as God did after creation. Rest allows us to recalibrate our focus on him. It's a time to worship, to reflect, to spend quality time with both Creator and creation.

Even Jesus, during His earthly ministry, made time for rest and solitude. He often withdrew to spend time in prayer and communion with God. By following his example, we make time to refresh our spiritual strength to carry out the things he has called us to.

Say Goodbye to Guilt

As you continue to do this transformative work with rest, may I also encourage you to shed the feelings of guilt that may surface within you?

Because society glorifies busyness, work, and hurry, many of us are prone to feelings of fear and guilt as we prioritize rest. Don’t listen to the lies!

Instead, understand that rest is a fundamental pillar of your well-being, sis. By reframing rest as strength, we empower ourselves to embrace it.... without reservation and without apology.

Make no mistake: Rest is our superpower.

**About the Author**

**Cheryl Nembhard** is a dynamic international speaker, author, podcast/tv host, justice advocate, and certified life coach. She is co-host of 'See, Hear, Love', a nationally televised women's talk show, and host of 'On The Path w/ Cheryl Nembhard', which can be found on YES TV and all podcast platforms. Cheryl is the Director of the Women Speakers Collective and the Founder of ***The Lighthouse Project***, a faith-based, 10-week online emotional healing program. Learn more at ***cherylnembhard.com***.

Will You Journey With Us?

Each week, we’ll share relevant blog posts, practical social media content, thoughtful reflection questions, meaningful prayer guides, Sabbath invitations, and ideas to incorporate rest as a rhythm in your own life.

Will you join us in this quiet revolution and begin to dip your toes into the peaceful waters of rest?

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