Rest in Him

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.

Psalm 4:8

Thank you for seeking out this help—you’re reaching for peace, and that’s a win worth celebrating! Hey there—ever feel like you’re running on fumes? I’ve been right there with you. After years of service, I battled with my PTSD and it felt like I couldn’t catch a break. Sleepless nights and nightmares had me losing control of myself and negatively reacting to situations and my surroundings. I was slipping further and further into the condition that had become what defined me. I surrendered myself and my burdens to Christ and found the sweetest gift: rest in Him. He didn’t just offer a timeout—He gave me peace that continues to last, and I want to share it with you! The scripture that opened this devotional is greatly comforting—God’s the One who lets us rest easy, safe in Him.

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

John 16:33

Jesus tells us, “In me, you may have peace,” even when life’s wild—because He’s already won. I can no longer count how much I had missed while fear, anger, guilt, regret, and despair (all sins) had a hold of my life. I constantly felt numb and had little to no remorse. Life meant very little to me when I was at my lowest. Surrendering my life to Christ and handing my burdens over to him has set me free. An unexplainable peace has come over me. I can find rest and comfort in Him.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:7

His peace guards us, way beyond what we can figure out. My mind was a prison that had me trapped. When I surrendered to Him, I went from restless to refreshed. Want that too? It’s yours in Christ!

Peace That Holds Steady

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

Isaiah 26:3

Here’s the beauty: this peace isn’t temporary—it lasts! If we keep our eyes on God, He keeps us in perfect peace. I used to think I had to keep it all together, that there was something I could do that would help. Bottom line up front, this peace comes from placing my trust and faith in Him.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus calls us to drop the load and rest in Him—gentle, not pushy. For me, PTSD had me wired tight until I heard that call. Why take Christ's yoke? A yoke was used while training animals to perform heavy tasks where the larger, stronger animal would pull along the weaker, smaller animal until they could carry out the task. Christ is using this metaphor to allow Him to guide us through life. He is there to pick us up when we stumble or veer off course. Vets and first responders, put on His yoke and keep your eyes on Him. He will guide you and protect you through your toughest storms. That’s Christ, and He’s inviting you in right now!

Strength in Stillness

Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

Psalm 46:10

Resting in Him allows you to take the weight off your shoulders. He’s God—He’s got it all, so we don’t have to. When I was at my lowest, it felt like the weight of the world was on my back and I couldn't escape the crushing feelings. Slowly, by God's grace, I began to repair. The weight has become less and the worries of yesterday have been quieted. Submitting to and understanding who God is and how powerful He is, allows you to love Him and rely on Him more.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Romans 15:13

God's peace isn’t boring, it’s alive with the Spirit! His power strengthens us deep inside. For me, resting in Christ after tough days didn’t mean weakness—it meant recharge. You’re not built to run empty—His peace fills you up so you can stand tall. It’s like a calm sea after a storm—steady, strong, and ready. Want to try that kind of rest? It’s a game-changer!

A Prayer for You

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

John 14:27

Let’s wrap up with a prayer—take a slow breath and let’s rest together: “Lord Jesus, thank You for Your peace that holds me steady. I’m tired of running on my own—I want to rest in You. Fill me with Your calm and strength today. Let Your love guard my heart and lift my spirit. I’m here with You—give me Your rest. Amen.”

John 14:27 is Jesus’ gift to you: His peace, not the world’s flimsy version. It’s yours, friend—no trouble, no fear, just Him. Resting in Christ isn’t giving up—it’s gearing up with the best kind of strength. Sink into that peace today—you’ll love how it feels!