He makes me lie down in green pastures. . . .

— Psalm 23:2

It is a busy season as I write this short devotional message. My list of responsibilities has increased lately, and I have less open time than I would like.

Sheep have a difficult time pacing themselves as well. They need a guide who can provide them with a life-giving cadence. The psalm writer found that with the Lord as his shepherd, he was not driven but made to stop and rest.

Rest is a part of the Lord's kingdom rhythm. All who are within God’s care are invited to work diligently for six days and then rest in him on the seventh because that is the best way to live. While resting, we sheep are encouraged to trust that whatever tasks we haven’t accomplished or plans we haven’t completed will be covered by the one who promises that we will lack nothing.

Resting is one of those invitations that is also a command. Rest! Stopping our labor is a concrete way of showing that we trust the shepherd to make good on his promises to care for us. This is not easy in today’s work-driven culture, so the testimony of a rested sheep can actually be quite powerful.

Where in your life might you be invited to slow down?

Good Shepherd, help us to rest in you, trusting that you have us in the palm of your loving hand. Thank you for giving us this confidence. Amen.