Benefits Of rest

Benefits Of Rest

A Changed Heart Women’s Discipleship Class
Chapter 2
The Benefits of Rest
January 12, 2010

Key Verse: To Whom he said, “This is the resting place, let the weary rest”; and, “This is the place of repose”-
But they would not listen.
–Isaiah 28:12

1. Read Matt 6:25-32. What things should you not worry about according to this passage?

Though we are not to worry about these kinds of things, they are still a part of our lives. We still need sustenance and clothing and basic provisions in order to survive. Yet these are not to become the center of life, because if they do, they can rob us of rest and distract us from what’s truly important.

2. Read Matthew6:33-34. According to this passage what is truly important? How does worry rob you of the rest God wants to give you?

Often our attitudes affect our outlook on life. The way we look at life affects the way we live.

3. Read Psalm 131. How would you describe the attitude of the psalmist in verse 1? How does this result in the rest for the soul of the psalmist?

4. What choice does the psalmist make in Psalm 131:2 regarding rest?

5. What does it mean to you to “still and quiet” your soul? How does having a “still and quiet” soul help better prepare you for the challenges you face everyday?

The truth is that rest restores and renews our bodies, minds, and spirits. Rest is a physical reminder that we are not in control of everything and at the end of the day, we are not the ones who have to hold it all together. That’s God’s job!

Digging Deeper

When we seek and obey God, we find rest for our souls. Read Isaiah 32;17. Why do you think the fruit of the righteous is peace? How does living righteously–obeying god’s laws–lead to quietness and confidence? Is it possible to be at peace and truly rest when you’re knowingly disobeying God? Why or why not

Ponder and Pray
The opening Scripture for this lesson comes from Isaiah 28;12.
To Whom he said, “This is the resting place, let the weary rest”; and, “This is the place of repose”-
But they would not listen.
–Isaiah 28:12
At what points in life are you most tempted to turn down an opportunity to rest? Are there any correlations between the times you turn down and opportunity to rest and the times you need it most? What changes do you need to make to be able to enter the resting place God has for you?

Bonus Activity
Over the course of the next week, let yourself take a nap at least one afternoon. Even if you don’t fall asleep, take at least 15-20 minutes to close your eyes, pray, and relax. Share how the experience affected your interaction with someone else.

Thank you so much for coming and I hope you received a blessing!

Next Women’s Discipleship class is Feb 9th, 2010 at 7pm
Lesson Topic:
Know your Season
Key Verse Psalm 1:3
He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings fourth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper