Rest for Restless People
Scripture Reading — Haggai 1
“You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough.”
Haggai 1:6
Our son is restless! Derek will enjoy playing with a game only for a few moments before growing dissatisfied and moving on to something else.
Judah was also restless. After seventy years in exile, they began a new life in their old land. But life didn’t go as they hoped. They labored in the fields but had few crops to show for it. They ate and drank, but were never satisfied.
The prophet Haggai explains that Judah’s restlessness had a spiritual cause. They had moved back into the promised land and rebuilt their homes and businesses, but they procrastinated with rebuilding the temple. They put off worship until they “got around to it.” Since the people neglected their relationship with God, God withheld his blessings.
There are many restless people today. They search for satisfaction in their work, their families, their accomplishments, or a life of moral excellence. These may be good things, but people eventually find that nothing satisfies until they have a right relationship with God.
Jesus invites us to find rest in him. When we trust in him, he promises to meet our deepest needs. He forgives our sins and assures us that he will care for us, protect us, lead us, and guide us.
Have you found rest in Jesus?
Father, when we are tempted to look for satisfaction in this world, help us to find our rest in you. Help us to tend our relationship with you so that we may enjoy the full life you promise. Amen.
About the author — Rob Toornstra
Rob Toornstra has served as pastor of Sunnyslope Christian Reformed Church in Salem, Oregon, since 2006. When not busy with pastoral duties, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, and their three children.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!