Karen Whiting

As moms, it’s good to find God’s direction for what challenges us – like getting enough rest. For these and other struggles, as well as joys, we look to Scripture.

Rest

“Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!’ He replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm” (Matthew 8:24-25).

Another night of interrupted sleep. I’m speaking about Jesus, but it applies to many moms. He slept in the boat, exhausted from speaking all day. But a storm came and cries for him to wake up started. He stood up, calmed the storm, and said, “Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!”

How often does a mom wish her children would trust they are safe and have faith in both their parents and God. Jesus gets it, and understands how tiring a day can become. Read Matthew 8:1-22 to see what Jesus did that day.

Other moms get it too. I had a few nights in a row where I had a different child wake up every hour and then rotate through a second time. I tried to bargain with God for sleep, and finally the only though in my head was 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient.” I prayed “may the sleep you give me be sufficient even though there’s only fifteen minutes until it’s time to rise.” I dozed off for those minutes and felt like I had slept eight hours. God can give us rest and peace. He knows our needs.

Reflect on other Scriptures for rest:

Philippians 4:8-9, Isaiah 26:3 - Physical rest, ceasing from work

1 Peter 5:7, Mark 4:19 - Seeds that are choked are compared to worries that distract us. We are encouraged to let go of them

John 14:27 - Focusing on peace from Jesus instead of troubles

Matthew 14:23, Luke 5:15-15 - The need to be alone to pray

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/monkeybusinessimages

Christians should realize that the world is connected, and pestilence, disease, and other problems can easily spread worldwide, but love and kindness can spread faster. God can use situations to inspire individuals and groups to repent and draw close to Him.

The account of Jesus feeding thousands of people with bread and fish shows extravagant love. The miracle went beyond mere food. It showed us the compassion of Jesus and his ability to provide much more than we need seen in the baskets of leftovers. [John 6]

The general population sought Jesus. They looked for Lazarus with Jesus. They sought hope, not power. It beckons us to listen and respond.