Over the years, I have had several different “favorite” bible verses. Today my “favorite is“ come unto me , all ye who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30). The Bible depicts God as the only source of true and lasting rest. The story of Israel’s ups and downs is a perfect illustration of how our walk with God produces rest. When Israel’s leaders and the bulk of her people followed God and His commands, scripture repeatedly points out that He gave the Israelites rest, meaning the nation was at peace with their neighbors and at peace with self. There is a message here for us and our nation as well as all of us and our lives.

Joe