Rest On Every Side Series

Title: REST ON EVERY SIDE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Samuel 7:1

"After the king was settled in his palace and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, he said to Nathan the prophet, 'Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.'" (NIV)

Supporting Texts:

Psalm 23:1-2

Exodus 33:14

Matthew 11:28-29

Hebrews 4:9-10

INTRODUCTION:

In life, we often find ourselves in a constant state of hustle and striving. The quest for success, the demands of life, and the pressures of responsibilities can leave us feeling drained. However, the Bible speaks of a rest that is not just physical, but spiritual, a rest that God promises to His people. In this study, we will explore the importance of rest in our daily lives, the kind of rest that God desires to give us, and how we can position ourselves to receive it.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE PROMISE OF REST

Rest is not merely the absence of work, but the presence of peace, security, and fulfilment in God.

a) A Rest That Comes from God

God’s rest is a gift, not just a cessation from physical labour but a deeper peace that comes from knowing His will and purpose (Matthew 11:28-29).

b) Spiritual Rest Is Vital

We need spiritual rest, which is found in the assurance of salvation and the peace of God that transcends all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

c) Rest for the Weary

Jesus calls all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest, showing that true rest is found in Him alone (Matthew 11:28-29).

d) Rest from Spiritual Striving

The Israelites were promised rest when they trusted in God. We too must rest in His finished work (Hebrews 4:10).

e) Biblical Example:

David found rest from his enemies after God gave him victory (2 Samuel 7:1).

2. GOD'S REST IS A SIGN OF HIS FAVOUR

The rest that God offers is not just for a moment but a sign of His ongoing blessing and favour upon our lives.

a) Rest Is Acknowledgment of God’s Sovereignty

When God gives rest, it’s an indication that He is in control, and that we can trust Him (Psalm 23:1-2).

b) Rest Is A Result of God’s Provision

God gives rest because He has provided for us and protected us from harm (Exodus 33:14).

c) Rest Comes After Spiritual Warfare

Rest often comes after a time of spiritual battle or challenge, signifying that victory has been achieved (2 Samuel 7:1).

d) Rest Is Part of God’s Covenant Blessing

Rest is a component of the peace that God gives as part of His covenant with His people (Leviticus 26:6).

e) Biblical Example:

God gave Solomon rest on every side as a result of David’s faithfulness, which allowed him to build the temple (1 Kings 5:4).

3. POSITIONING OURSELVES TO RECEIVE REST

While God offers rest, we must be positioned to receive it. Our actions, attitudes, and faith in God play a crucial role.

a) Trusting in God’s Timing

Rest comes when we trust that God will provide at the right time, according to His will (Psalm 23:1).

b) Surrendering Our Worries

To receive rest, we must surrender our worries and anxieties, placing them in God’s hands (Matthew 6:25-27).

c) Focusing on God’s Presence

In His presence, there is fullness of joy and peace that leads to rest (Psalm 16:11).

d) Letting Go of Control

Rest comes when we stop striving to control everything and trust that God is working on our behalf (Psalm 46:10).

e) Biblical Example:

The Israelites had to trust in God’s promises for rest in the promised land, rather than leaning on their own understanding (Joshua 1:13).

4. THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN REST

The Holy Spirit plays a significant role in providing rest, both internally and externally.

a) The Holy Spirit Comforts and Strengthens

The Holy Spirit brings comfort and inner peace that allows us to experience rest in difficult circumstances (John 14:26-27).

b) The Holy Spirit Guides Us into Peace

The Holy Spirit leads us into paths of peace that allow us to rest in God’s will (Romans 8:14).

c) The Holy Spirit Helps Us Overcome Anxiety

He empowers us to overcome fear and anxiety, bringing us into a state of rest (Romans 8:6).

d) The Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Cease from Striving

Through the Holy Spirit, we can learn to stop striving and trust in God’s work in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

e) Biblical Example:

Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as a source of peace and rest for His followers (John 14:26-27).

5. MAINTAINING REST IN OUR DAILY LIVES

Once we have experienced rest, it is essential to maintain it in our daily lives by continuously relying on God.