I’ve been here before…

I’m spent.

Here’s the truth: I’m too busy. I’ve somehow built my identity around how busy how I am. I think I’m overly connected to technology and social media. And honestly, it has a negative effect on my soul, making me less content. Have you been here before?

My busyness and over-connectedness quickly turns into anxiety. I rarely allow time to settle down and simply be present where I am and who I’m with. It seems being present is a lost art in today’s society. I’m exhausted because I say ‘Yes’ to everything. There’s no margin in my life, no time to be spontaneous, no time to be creative, no time to chat with a neighbor, no time. Have you been here before?

My life feels like it’s run by competing priorities, not by me. And this morning, when I looked at myself in the mirror, I realized this person had nothing left to give. I realized I couldn’t be the husband and father and employee and friend that I’m called to be. Have you been here before?

When I have no margin—and fail to set proper boundaries—I reach a point of exhaustion. But I’ve discovered that Christ offers me rest. He says, “Come to me and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).” But here’s the key: I have to come to him; I need to draw near to him. In Jesus, there is fullness of joy and peace.

Sometimes, I wonder if my busyness comes from seeking fulfillment in too many other things. But when I draw near to God, I’ve found that he draws near to me…and this is where I find rest; this is where I find contentment. You don’t have to let your busyness, anxiety and hopelessness win. There is a better way.

If you’ve reached a point of exhaustion today, join me in meditating on these four Bible verses.

1. Matthew 11:28-29 (GNTD)
   “Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke and put it on you, and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit; and you will find rest.
2. Psalm 4:8 (GNTD)
   When I lie down, I go to sleep in peace; you alone, O Lord, keep me perfectly safe.
3. Psalm 23:1-2 (GNTD)
   The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in fields of green grass and leads me to quiet pools of fresh water.
4. Isaiah 40:28-29 (GNTD)
   Don't you know? Haven't you heard? The Lord is the everlasting God; he created all the world. He never grows tired or weary. No one understands his thoughts. He strengthens those who are weak and tired.

Enjoy today.