I have a confession to make: I’m not sure I know how to rest.

It’s a sad realization but after years and years of therapy for my depression, I realized I had worn myself out. I suffered from burnout, which led to depression. As I recovered, I had to ask myself how to balance taking care of others, myself, my community–and resting, really resting. I’m not just talking about sleeping at night or taking an occasional nap; I’m talking about resting your soul and your mind.

It’s an ongoing journey for me, but just like anything else, it takes practice. Sometimes I do it well and sometimes I fail miserably. But that’s where grace comes in–another important reminder I have to deal with during my period of recovery. Grace for myself and others. Life won’t be perfect and neither will I be–whether trying to rest or work or do whatever.

My favorite scripture from the Message version of the Bible helps me remember to rest and to give myself grace.

Matthew 11:28-30: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

*I write about this concept and verse in Navigating the Blues: Where to Turn When Worry, Anxiety, or Depression Steals Your Hope on page 23

The imagery of unforced rhythms of grace reminds me to go with the flow–the flow of grace.

What helps you rest?