Rest For My Soul

Matthew 11:28-30 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

About a month ago, I had written this verse in my prayer journal and was reminded that God desires that I rest in Him. This past week, I have had to physically rest because of extreme fatigue and flu symptoms...and it has caused me to reflect on the meaning of "rest for my soul." I had been so consumed with my shortcomings as a mom that I had neglected the importance of having time for myself. I would feel guilty if I wasn't "available" 24/7 for them, so reading a book, going for a walk, hanging out with a friend, making a phone call--all left me feeling extremely guilty, and consequently, empty. I arrived at a place where I felt like I had little left to give and for those who haven't been there, it is a lonely place. I remember telling Mike that I felt like a different person and I didn't like who I'd become. :( I knew that I had to change, not just for me, but for them. As I started giving these guilty feelings over to the Lord and making meaningful time for myself, my time with the kids has become so much more enjoyable. We have seen incredible gains with each of them over the last few weeks and I can honestly say for the first time, it feels like we are a family. I praise God for the growth I see in each of us and the incredible way He is bonding each of us together. Thank you for standing with us during this time as God prepares us for future ministry as a family.