A quick review: We have previously explored the simple but life changing truths that our immeasurable value rests solely in the fact that God created us, that His stubborn love sets us apart and that He designed and empowers a unique plan for each one of us.

Successful woman in ministry recognize the value of rest. Stop laughing! I know exactly what you are thinking, “Rest - never heard of it.  What is it and where do I go to find it?” Women in ministry constantly amaze me as they juggle the relentless demands of their calling, family, marriage, church, relationships, health, time, energy, finances, and just plain life!  Life is so….daily!  For many years I evaluated my personal worth on the basis of how successful I was in ministry.  And how successful I was in ministry was determined by how busy I stayed – ministering! 

When my son was ten years old absolutely everyone in Jered’s life knew exactly what he wanted for Christmas - a remote control car.  After months of calculated but prudently dropped hints, we found the coveted car, bought it, wrapped it and placed it under the Christmas tree. I even remembered to install batteries so that it would be ready to go on Christmas morning.  I will never forget the look on Jered’s face as he tore through the wrapping paper and saw “the car”.  Leaping to his feet, Jered threw his thankful arms around us and headed outside to play.  For a few moments, Dan and I basked in the warmth of a parenting job well done, and then headed outside to join the fun.  There in the middle of the driveway stood Jered, watching his brand new car sputtering slowly in circles.  I – could – not – believe - it!  Upset at the prospect of having to return the car and more importantly, anticipating my son’s disappointment, I spewed anger and sputtered frustration like an erupting volcano. “This is ridiculous!  It took weeks to find this car!  It is hardly out of the box and already broken!”  My wise and patient son stopped me in mid-sputter, “Mom, don’t worry. The instructions say that when the batteries are low, the car will sputter and go in circles.  We just need new batteries."

And so it is with life.  When our spiritual batteries are low, life dissolves into frustration, burnout and wasted effort. 

Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God.

While this verse implies that we cannot know God on the run it also implies that when we are still we will know Him!  God Himself demonstrates this truth that rest is not an option but a necessity.