Afternoon Prescott Family,

Rest - we all want it, especially after a long day at work or at school. But sometimes it can feel that we never quite get enough. It could be random thoughts that keep us up, worries we have for our family, or work that doesn’t seem to end. Health issues, anxiety or we may even get that sweet 8 hours of sleep but still feel exhausted. 

And not having enough rest time can affect our mood, the way we interact with each other, our mental health as well as our physical health.

A study on sleep reported that nearly half of all Australian adults (48%) report a least 2 sleep-related problems and that one-quarter of 12–13-year-olds (27%) and half of 16–17-year-olds (52%) do not meet sleep guidelines on school nights. It widely recognised that getting enough sleep or rest is vital in keeping your overall health and well-being in check.

Our world is filled with so many things that keep us from resting, but Jesus gives us a promise that we can hold on to in those restless moments. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus encourages us to lean on him and let him take all our burdens. No matter what we’ve gone through or the stresses that we have right now, we can leave it in His hands.

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

With only a week and a half left of Term 3, I’m sure we’re all planing how best to relax and enjoy the break. Whether it’s a camping trip, going interstate to visit family or just time at home, we can use these opportunities to come to Jesus and take rest in Him. It could be a Sabbath afternoon walk in the gardens surrounded by God’s amazing nature, a devotional time with the family or a power nap in the afternoon. Lastly, I leave you with an awesome passage found in Psalms,

“You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.” Psalms 4:7-8 

Many Blessings,

Pr Andy.