The Absence of Anxiety in a Life in Season: Understanding God’s Rest
Isaac Megbolugbe
July 21, 2025
Introduction
Anxiety can be a pervasive and debilitating force in our lives, often stemming from our attempts to control circumstances or flee from challenges. However, God’s rest offers a different perspective – one that transcends external circumstances and instead focuses on a shift in purview and perspective.
What is God’s Rest?
God’s rest is not about reconstituting circumstances or fleeing from the enemy. Rather, it’s about finding peace and tranquility in the midst of chaos. It’s a state of being that allows us to trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, even when things seem uncertain or overwhelming.
A Shift in Purview and Perspective
The key to experiencing God’s rest is a shift in our purview and perspective. This means looking beyond our immediate circumstances and focusing on God’s character, promises, and purposes. When we do this, we begin to see things from a different perspective – one that is rooted in faith, hope, and trust.
Biblical Examples
The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who experienced God’s rest in the midst of challenging circumstances. For instance, Psalm 23:4 says, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” This psalm demonstrates how trust in God’s presence and guidance can bring peace and rest, even in the face of uncertainty.
Characteristics of God’s Rest
God’s rest is characterized by [1][2]:
– Trust: Trusting in God’s sovereignty and goodness, even when circumstances seem uncertain or overwhelming.
– Peace: Experiencing a sense of peace that transcends external circumstances.
– Perspective: Looking beyond immediate circumstances and focusing on God’s character, promises, and purposes.
– Faith: Exercising faith in God’s ability to work all things together for our good.
Experiencing God’s Rest
To experience God’s rest, we need to [3]:
– Seek God: Seek God through prayer, Bible study, and meditation.
– Trust God’s Promises: Trust in God’s promises and character.
– Focus on Eternity: Focus on eternity and God’s eternal purposes.
– Surrender Control: Surrender control and trust in God’s sovereignty.
In conclusion, God’s rest is not about reconstituting circumstances or fleeing from the enemy. Rather, it’s about finding peace and tranquility in the midst of chaos through a shift in purview and perspective. By trusting in God’s sovereignty and goodness, we can experience a deep sense of rest and peace that transcends external circumstances.
