[God] rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. - Genesis 2:2

In today's fast-paced world, many people with day planners, pagers, and cell phones are pushing themselves to the limit. Parents, sometimes with furrowed brows and clenched fists, race from soccer fields to school meetings to piano lessons - grabbing meals on the run and collapsing into bed at night exhausted.

Is it possible that we as followers of Jesus Christ also approach life far too intensely? It seems that we often put ourselves under enormous pressure to succeed and to experience everything we possibly can. When we don't, we can't forgive ourselves for failing to measure up to our own expectations.

But is this the way God wants us to live? When we examine His creation activity in Genesis 1, we see a simple pattern. First was the work of making the universe - everything from atoms to radishes to cats to man. Then came enjoyment - He saw that "it was very good" (v.31). Then came rest (2:1-2). God rested, not because He was weary but because He was satisfied with the completion of a job well done.

Maybe your hectic schedule and intense lifestyle have robbed you of your sense of humor, peace, joy, and satisfaction in life. If so, follow God's pattern of work, enjoyment, and rest. You'll be amazed at how satisfying life can be.

-DCE

When we take time for fun and play,
For rest along life's busy way,
And when we pause to kneel and pray -
We are renewed from day to day.

-D. De Haan

Beware the barrenness of a busy day. - Redpath