Main Thought
The Pelicano was a freighter (a ship) loaded with 28 million pounds of toxic ash. It went from port-to-port, but only to refuel. No country would allow it to unload its toxic ash. This can be a picture of Christians. We’re “refueled” with things like church, Life Group, worship music and podcasts. But we might not stop long enough to empty our souls of toxicity we accumulate simply by living in this world. How do we get rid of these burdens? Through rest. Jesus teaches us to rest. This starts as we accept His invitation to rest without fear, excuses, or pride that comes from busyness. Choosing to rest is a matter of submission to God that can reveal how much we trust Him. Jesus wants to transform us into His image. He teaches us to live from a posture of gentleness and humility like Him. Our souls find rest when these things happen in our lives; rest from the chaos around us, and from the chaos inside us.
Main Passages
Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.
- Proverbs 4:23
28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 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. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
- Matthew 11:28-30
Discussion Questions
The word “labor” can refer to the burdens we put on ourselves, and the phrase “heavy laden” can refer to the burdens placed upon us by other people or by the world. Do either of these things (or both of them) apply to you in this season?
What makes rest effective vs. ineffective? How can God be involved in finding effective rest?
Rest looks different for us as the seasons of our lives change. What does “rest” look like for you? What practical adjustments need to be made for you to find rest?