Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.
Mark 6:31NLT
Jesus had just sent out the twelve apostles to preach and heal, and they returned, eager to report on their experiences. However, there was so much activity — crowds coming and going — that they were overwhelmed and had no time to rest or eat.
Here, Jesus demonstrates that resting isn't a luxury but a necessary part of living well. Even Jesus, who had an incredibly demanding ministry, made time to slow down. We, too, are called to live unhurried.
When we do so, we may produce the following God-given fruit:1
- Keeping closer company with Jesus
- Freedom
- Patience
- Living life to the fullest
- Trusting God’s timing
- Resting in the presence of God
- Receiving interruptions graciously
- Realizing the work of the Spirit is not an “instant” work
- Delighting in beautiful things
By embracing a slower pace, we align ourselves with God's rhythm, allowing His presence to shape our lives more fully and enabling us to experience an abundant life.