Take the time to rest.

Yep, it seems like an easy enough instruction, doesn't it? But for a single mom juggling multiple jobs and countless hats, it can seem impossible. We're not talking about physical rest here, although it is essential for your body and well-being. Nope, we're talking spiritual rest.

Isn’t it interesting how we have the same tasks week-in and week-out, and sometimes we seem to move through our day and week with ease, but there are other times when we just seem to be drudging through? This is often because there has been no rest in the spirit. Resting is a hard concept for a mom. There is just so much that needs to be done. We balance so many balls in the air. However, our Lord requires to be before Him, rest in Him, and receive the "mounting up on wings like eagles." The Word tells us not to grow weary in the doing of good. How could that be possible? It is possible because we learn to rest in the spirit, not in the physical.

Read Hebrews 4. There is a special rest for the people of God. Oftentimes, we are not resting in the spirit. The Holy Spirit is your Advocate, Comforter, and Helper. His fruits are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, goodness, and self-control. Rest is the spirit includes the following:

• Obedience – As we obey the Lord, we find rest, knowing He will protect, lead, and guide us.
• Spiritual habits – As we spend time in His Word, His presence, and His house, we find rest for our weary souls. He speaks, ministers, teaches, and lifts burdens. We begin to experience the peace of God as we sacrifice time to adhere to our spiritual disciplines.
• Intentionality – As we know, with much else in our lives, rest comes with intention. Sometimes, we simply need to unplug from social media, iPhones, and the demands of our days and weeks and get before the Lord with great intention. We often get babysitters for a girlfriend's night or date night, but when was the last time you asked for a babysitter to be alone with the Lord and seek His face? The Lord never leaves His daughters dry or thirsty.

Anyone who enters God’s rest finds comfort in His presence and peace. Take a day off from working. Fill your home with worship music and relax. The dishes can wait. The laundry can wait. Just take some quiet time to be in His presence. Even while it was storming at sea, Jesus took a nap. The storms around you are not bigger than your God. Choose rest. Rest in knowing He has them under control. Assess His track record to see that He is good. Know He is working things out for you in a way only He could have.

Points to Ponder:

• What are some things that are preventing you from resting? Is it control? Disobedience? Lack of intention? How might you implement the tips from the daily devotions from this week?
• Join Single Mom University® for free– absolutely free. With over 175 classes to grow your faith, you’ll learn effective strategies to be a warrior single momma in Christ. Simply visit www.SingleMomUniversity.com and fill out a scholarship application using coupon code: YouVersion.