Prayer Starter - Sunday, December 14, 2026 The Gift of Rest
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Matthew 11:28–30 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.
Rest is not laziness. In fact for some of us, it can be work. It is God's invitation to breathe again. In a world that celebrates hurry, productivity, and constant motion, Jesus offers something radically different: a place to lay down what is heavy and receive what is healing.
God designed us with limits. This is not a weakness, but a reminder that our strength comes from Him. When we pause, we make room for His presence. When we slow down, we hear His voice more clearly. When we release our burdens, He restores our peace.
The rest Jesus provides is more than physical relief. It is a soul deep renewal. It clears our minds, steadies our hearts, and realigns our priorities with His truth. In His rest we find strength for today, clarity for our decisions, and peace that carries us forward.
Rest is God's gift not an afterthought. And when we accept His invitation, we discover that stillness is not wasted time. This gift is holy time.
Jesus, I come to You for rest. Quiet my heart, ease my burdens, and refresh my soul with Your gentleness. Lord, thank You for inviting me to rest in You.
Quiet my mind, calm my spirit, and renew my strength with Your peace.
Help me embrace the stillness that restores my heart and draw me into the rest only You can provide.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
