Finding Spiritual Rest: Trust, Peace, and Joy in God
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound concept of spiritual rest in the Lord, a theme that resonates deeply with our ongoing Abide series. Spiritual rest is not merely about ceasing from work but involves a deeper, multifaceted engagement with God that encompasses trust, peace, and joy. We began by acknowledging the various forms of rest mentioned in Scripture, such as Sabbath rest and our final rest in eternity, but focused primarily on spiritual rest. This rest is akin to an archer aiming for a target, where the target is a life fully immersed in God's presence and peace.
We delved into the seven traits of spiritual rest as outlined by R.C. Sproul Jr., which include trusting in God's grace for salvation, ceasing from anxiety, and experiencing a foretaste of God's kingdom. These traits are not just theoretical but are meant to be lived out in our daily lives, offering us glimpses of eternity. For instance, corporate worship and the Lord's Supper serve as tangible experiences of God's eternal promises.
The message also emphasized the importance of preparing ourselves to hit the target of spiritual rest. This involves practices such as prayer, listening to God, participating in communion, and edifying one another. We are called to avoid sin and pursue repentance, as unconfessed sin creates a barrier to true rest. Sharing the story of God's glory is crucial, as it keeps His truth alive in our hearts and communities.
Finally, we explored why striving for spiritual rest is essential. It renews our strength for ministry, deepens our dependence on God, and clarifies our calling and purpose. Resting in the Lord empowers us by the Holy Spirit and models Christ's example, equipping us to share the gospel and make disciples. This is not just a personal endeavor but a matter of life and death, as many are lost without the knowledge of Christ. Therefore, we are urged to rejuvenate in the hope and promise of Christ, preparing our hearts for the spiritual battle ahead.
Key Takeaways:
1. Trust in God's Grace: True spiritual rest begins with trusting in God's grace for salvation, as emphasized in Ephesians 2:8-9. This trust is foundational, reminding us that our salvation is a gift from God, not something we can earn. By resting in this truth, we find peace and security in God's presence. [07:26]
2. Cease from Anxiety: Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to let go of anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving. Spiritual rest involves actively pushing out worry and allowing God's peace to guard our hearts. This practice requires intentionality and a focus on God's promises. [07:26]
3. Experience a Foretaste of Eternity: Spiritual rest offers a glimpse of God's kingdom, as described in Romans 14:17. Through worship, Sabbath observance, and communion, we experience a foretaste of eternity, reminding us of the joy and peace that await us. [07:26]
4. Celebrate Christ's Victory: Psalm 62:1 calls us to rest in the victory of Christ's finished work. Celebrating daily what Christ has done for us helps suppress worldly anxieties and keeps our focus on His eternal promises. [20:13]
5. Embrace Joy and Peace as Spiritual Weapons: Romans 8:37-39 assures us that nothing can separate us from God's love. This assurance is a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare, enabling us to stand firm against the challenges of this world. [20:13]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [03:02] - Introduction to Spiritual Rest
- [05:18] - Personal Story: Snorkeling and Anxiety
- [07:26] - Seven Traits of Spiritual Rest
- [10:45] - Trusting in God's Grace
- [12:30] - Ceasing from Anxiety
- [15:00] - Experiencing a Foretaste of Eternity
- [18:20] - Celebrating Christ's Victory
- [20:13] - Embracing Joy and Peace
- [25:45] - Preparing for Spiritual Rest
- [30:01] - Edifying One Another
- [32:31] - Repentance and Rest
- [37:09] - The Call to Action
- [44:35] - The Urgency of Sharing the Gospel
- [46:46] - Conclusion and Communion Transition
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Spiritual Rest in the Lord
Bible Reading:
1. Ephesians 2:8-9
2. Philippians 4:6-7
3. Romans 14:17
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Observation Questions:
1. What are the seven traits of spiritual rest as outlined by R.C. Sproul Jr., and how do they relate to our daily lives? [07:26]
2. How does the sermon describe the concept of "entering into the already of God's kingdom while still in the not yet"? [07:26]
3. What personal story did the pastor share to illustrate the concept of failing to rest in what is known to be true? [05:18]
4. According to the sermon, what role does corporate worship and the Lord's Supper play in experiencing a foretaste of eternity? [07:26]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does trusting in God's grace for salvation, as mentioned in Ephesians 2:8-9, serve as a foundation for spiritual rest? [07:26]
2. In what ways does ceasing from anxiety, as encouraged in Philippians 4:6-7, contribute to experiencing spiritual rest? [07:26]
3. How does the sermon suggest that celebrating Christ's victory daily can suppress worldly anxieties? [20:13]
4. What does the sermon imply about the importance of sharing the story of God's glory in maintaining spiritual rest? [32:31]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you struggled with anxiety. How can you apply Philippians 4:6-7 to actively push out worry and allow God's peace to guard your heart? [07:26]
2. Consider your current spiritual practices. How can you incorporate more intentional moments of rest and reflection to experience a foretaste of eternity? [07:26]
3. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to trust more in God's grace for salvation. How can this trust transform your daily interactions and decisions? [07:26]
4. How can you make celebrating Christ's victory a daily practice in your life? What specific steps can you take to keep your focus on His eternal promises? [20:13]
5. Think about a recent situation where you felt spiritually drained. How can resting in the Lord renew your strength for ministry and deepen your dependence on God? [37:09]
6. Reflect on your participation in corporate worship and communion. How can these practices become more meaningful experiences of God's eternal promises for you? [07:26]
7. Who in your life needs to hear the story of God's glory? What steps can you take this week to share His truth and keep it alive in your heart and community? [32:31]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting in God's Unmerited Grace
Trusting in God's grace is the foundation of spiritual rest. It is a profound acknowledgment that our salvation is not something we can earn through our efforts but is a gift freely given by God. This trust liberates us from the burden of trying to prove ourselves worthy and allows us to rest in the assurance of His love and acceptance. By embracing this truth, we find peace and security in God's presence, knowing that His grace is sufficient for us. This understanding transforms our relationship with God, shifting it from one of striving to one of resting in His promises. [07:26]
Ephesians 1:7-8 (ESV): "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you still trying to earn God's favor, and how can you begin to rest in His grace today?
Day 2: Releasing Anxiety Through Prayer
Ceasing from anxiety is a crucial aspect of spiritual rest. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to let go of their worries through prayer and thanksgiving, allowing God's peace to guard their hearts. This practice requires intentionality, as it involves actively pushing out worry and focusing on God's promises. By doing so, we create space for God's peace to fill our lives, transforming our perspective and enabling us to face life's challenges with confidence and calmness. [07:26]
1 Peter 5:7 (ESV): "Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."
Reflection: What specific worries are you holding onto today, and how can you intentionally release them to God in prayer?
Day 3: Experiencing a Glimpse of Eternity
Spiritual rest offers a foretaste of God's kingdom, providing glimpses of the joy and peace that await us in eternity. Through practices like worship, Sabbath observance, and communion, we experience moments of divine presence that remind us of the eternal promises of God. These experiences are not just rituals but are opportunities to connect deeply with God and to be refreshed by His Spirit. They serve as reminders of the ultimate rest we will find in His presence, encouraging us to live with hope and anticipation. [07:26]
Hebrews 4:9-10 (ESV): "So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his."
Reflection: How can you incorporate moments of worship and reflection into your daily routine to experience a foretaste of eternity?
Day 4: Celebrating Christ's Victory
Resting in the victory of Christ's finished work is essential for spiritual rest. Psalm 62:1 calls us to find rest in what Christ has accomplished, suppressing worldly anxieties and keeping our focus on His eternal promises. By celebrating daily what Christ has done for us, we are reminded of the power and sufficiency of His sacrifice, which brings us peace and assurance. This celebration is not just a mental exercise but a spiritual practice that strengthens our faith and deepens our relationship with God. [20:13]
Colossians 2:13-15 (ESV): "And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him."
Reflection: How can you intentionally celebrate Christ's victory in your life today, and what impact does this have on your spiritual rest?
Day 5: Embracing Joy and Peace as Spiritual Weapons
Joy and peace are powerful spiritual weapons that enable us to stand firm against the challenges of this world. Romans 8:37-39 assures us that nothing can separate us from God's love, providing us with the confidence to face spiritual battles with courage and resilience. By embracing these gifts, we are empowered to live victoriously, knowing that God's love and presence are with us always. This assurance transforms our approach to life's difficulties, allowing us to respond with faith and hope. [20:13]
Nehemiah 8:10 (ESV): "Then he said to them, 'Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.'"
Reflection: In what ways can you use joy and peace as spiritual weapons in your current circumstances, and how can they help you overcome challenges?
Quotes
And so true rest in the Lord encompasses when we're in true rest one is trusting in the Lord for his grit for grace and salvation that's not of our own effort and we see that in Ephesians 2 8 through 9 where clearly states for by grace you've been saved through faith and this is not of your own works it is a gift of God not as a result of works so that no one may boast in this passage it emphasizes that salvation is entirely a gift from God received through faith and there's nothing that we can do to earn it on our own efforts. [00:09:56] (36 seconds)
Philippians 4 6 through 7 tells us this don't be anxious about anything that's one that I really have to ingrain in my head but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be known to God and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts in the minds of Christ Jesus we need to make an effort to shed the worry and anxiety that creeps in throughout the day or when we're trying to pursue rest in the Lord or when we spend time in his word we need to try to push that out. [00:12:45] (37 seconds)
And in Sproul's study, he kind of caps it off with this at the end. It says, these examples reflect a lived theology, lived theology through worship and Sabbath, aren't just duties, but windows into eternity. We get a peek at eternity. They're imperfect, fleeting, and mixed with struggles of this age. Yet they carry the weight of God's presence, offering a real, tangible taste of what's promised. [00:17:56] (28 seconds)
In Psalm 62 .1, it tells us, truly my soul finds rest in God. My salvation comes from him. And I would argue that we are not good as believers in celebrating daily the victories of Christ. And I hate to use a rash generalization, but I think that's pretty true when you look at how things are evolving around us as a nation, as Western culture. And we need to take time to put God first, front, daily what he's done for us, and not reserve it just for Sunday or communion or special events like Easter. [00:18:25] (37 seconds)
Romans 8 37 30 i'm sorry 37 through 39 i tried to condense that i just can't do it justice if i do so i'm going to read it and i apologize and ask that you bear with me but it states this no in all things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us for i am sure that neither death nor life nor angels nor rulers nor things present nor things to come nor powers and it closes with this nor heights nor depths nor anything in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of god in christ jesus our lord. [00:20:38] (40 seconds)
This passage highlights the intimate relationship they have with God as our Heavenly Father. And then R .C. Sprouls, he closes with this, he says, the true rest is not following a set of rules, which is good because I'm kind of a rule breaker, but it's about experiencing peace and joy that comes from a deep relationship with God and trust in his promises. [00:23:05] (25 seconds)
And so now I want to talk about how do we hit the target? What do we do to make sure that we're hitting that target and that we're on the mark? So first, prayer and hymns. In Philippians 4, 6 through 7, it tells us, do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication. With thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. [00:23:54] (34 seconds)
And so Colossians 3 .15, it says this, or 3 .15 through 17, it says, and let or allow, right? The peace of Christ rule in your hearts to which indeed you were called in one body and be thankful. Let allow the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thanksgiving in your hearts to God. [00:24:38] (26 seconds)
And like I stated earlier, when we're participating in the communion, participating in communion, as believers, we don't just remember Christ's sacrifice, but also we get this participation in this spiritual union with him and all the saints past, present, and future. And so communion is also one of the preparatory aspects as we pursue resting in the Lord. [00:29:00] (28 seconds)
By repenting and turning to God, we open ourselves up to the restorative powers of the true rest for our souls. The Holy Spirit will gnaw on our hearts and souls until we bring it before the Lord. And we see in Isaiah 30, 15, this is what the sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel says, in repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength. [00:32:50] (29 seconds)
And the reality of this, that people are going to die and they're going to go to hell because they don't know Christ or they forsake Christ as their savior. And there's no way to sugarcoat it. That is life. That is reality. And God's word clearly tells us that we are called to go out and share his gospel. And that's not when we're ready. It's not when we're comfortable, because I'm certainly not comfortable up here. This is not my gig. Okay. [00:44:26] (30 seconds)
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