Margin for the Soul
Why Rest Isn’t Optional
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
—Matthew 11:28–30 (ESV)
Have you ever noticed how many things in life try to steal your rest? Sometimes it’s an overcommitted schedule that leaves no room to breathe. Other times it’s work creeping into evenings and weekends or the endless pull of screens and notifications that never let our minds settle.
Then there’s the weight of unprocessed worry. These are the thoughts we carry silently—what if the job doesn’t work out, how will I cover that bill, will my kids be okay? Instead of laying these concerns before God, we replay them over and over in our minds. The problem is, worry never solves tomorrow’s problems—it only drains today’s strength. Without noticing it, our hearts and minds are running on empty, even when our bodies are still.
Jesus knew our tendency to carry too much, and that’s why He gave this invitation: “Come to me…and I will give you rest.” Rest isn’t just a luxury for when life slows down—it’s a necessity for our souls in every season. Without it, we end up drained, distracted, and running on empty. But with Him, we discover rest that refreshes not only our bodies but also our hearts and minds.
Practical Takeaways
Protect one quiet moment each day – Even 10 minutes with Scripture or prayer can reset your soul.
Set boundaries with work and screens – Decide when to “log off” so you can be fully present at home.
Release worry to God – Write down your top concern and hand it over in prayer before bed.
Questions to Ponder
Which of these “rest stealers” is hitting me hardest right now?
What small boundary could I put in place this week to guard my margin?
How might my stress change if I accepted Jesus’ invitation to soul-level rest?
