The Spiritual Oxymoron of Rest and Rebellion

During today’s conversation on Back Porch Theology we’re going to mosey into a subject matter that is most definitely not my strong suit, and that is the theology of rest. Now if you’re like me and haven’t quite figured out that busyness isn’t a spiritual gift, don’t press delete yet because I promise we’re not taking you on a guilt trip today! Instead, we’re going to consider the wonderful and wide continuum of biblical rest, because it’s not a one-size-fits-all concept. And frankly, even if you’re convinced that slowing down isn’t programmed into your personality type, there are lots of ways besides a complete cessation of physical activity for us to enjoy the divine gift of restoration and replenishment. Don’t forget, the first time the word rest appears in biblical narrative is early in Genesis 2 - before original sin crept into the Garden resulting in the fall of creation. That means rest is not an accommodation for human weakness and is instead part of God’s perfect plan for our blessing, protection, perseverance, and enjoyment. If you’ve been defined as a Type-A, an over-achiever, rest-challenged, or an Enneagram 1 or 8, just breathe and unclench, we’re in this together baby and I promise this conversation isn’t going to taste like medicine! So please grab a cup of coffee (and feel free to make that a double espresso!) and your Bible – unless you’re bringing home the bacon and frying it up in a pan, of course – and come hang out on the porch with Alli, Dr. Howard and me.  Follow Us On Instagram! @BackPorchTheologyPodcast @LisaDHarper @AllisonAllen @Jim.Howard.Co  Learn more about Convoy of Hope’s Women’s Empowerment program at Convoy.org/LisaHarper.    SAVE 20% by using code Lisa20 at ElevatedFaith.com