Rest this weekend

​Dear Worship Pastors and Music Leaders in Georgia,
​
I trust this message finds you well. It's Rhon from the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, and I wanted to share a thought with you—one that, in our fast-paced society, can be a challenge to embrace.
 
Acknowledging our limits is often one of the toughest ideas to accept about ourselves. In a culture that glorifies busyness, constant drive, multitasking, and an all-encompassing approach to work and technology, the concept of rest becomes somewhat countercultural.
We're conditioned to keep pushing, to persevere through challenges without a pause. The relentless pursuit of goals and burning the candle at both ends is applauded. Yet, this strategy takes a toll on our bodies and minds, impacting our mental health in the long run.
The truth is, we all need rest, and there are limits to how far we can push ourselves physically and mentally. Ignoring this basic human need amounts to denying ourselves the care and respect we deserve.
 
When we neglect to rest, we're essentially punishing our bodies and minds, treating them with disregard or merely as means to an end.
 
Taking the time to rest is an act of self-love and respect for our entire being.
Personally, I often have to remind myself to slow down. Every few months, my body and mind send signals that I'm reaching my limits, prompting me to listen more attentively.
 
To encourage you to do the same, here are a few ways I'm trying to incorporate more rest into my life. Feel free to pick one or more and take some time for yourself this weekend:

• Sit in solitude and quiet.
• Engage in "unproductive" activities just for the joy of it.
• Allow yourself a nap.
• Take a leisurely walk in nature.
• Grant yourself permission not to respond.
• Exercise with no specific agenda or goal.
• Explore activities like drawing, painting, and journaling.
• Take a break from technology.

 
Remember, part of rest is recognizing your limits, but it's also about acknowledging your inherent value. You are not defined by the tasks you check off a list; your worth goes beyond achievements.
 
Take some well-deserved time this weekend to rest and remind yourself of this truth.
 
Warm regards,
Rhon

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