Finding Strength in Sacred Rest: A Devotional on 1 Kings 19:7
When God Calls You to Rest
"Then the angel of the LORD returned for a second time and touched him. He said, 'Get up and eat, or the journey will be too much for you.'" (1 Kings 19:7) CSB
A Personal Story of Forced Rest
On December 12, 2023, I was lying on the table awaiting surgery when the anesthesiologist unexpectedly came in to inform me that they would not be proceeding due to an abnormal EKG. This led to a whirlwind of questions, ultimately resulting in a trip to the emergency room. On December 19, 2023, I underwent the first of three heart ablations for Premature Ventricular Contractions. I was aware of these contractions but was shocked to learn I was experiencing over 30,000 of them each day—explaining the crippling fatigue I had been feeling.
The year 2024 ushered in a season of two more ablations, a great deal of uncertainty, and, ultimately, a lot of rest.
Biblical Encouragement: God's Provision in Rest
Sometimes, rest isn’t something we choose—it’s something we are forced into. In 1 Kings 19, Elijah had reached his breaking point. He was physically, emotionally, and spiritually drained. His exhaustion led him to collapse beneath a tree, asking God to take his life. But instead of condemning him, the Lord met him in his weariness. Through an angel, He provided Elijah with food, water, and the gentle command to rest.
Learning to Embrace God's Gift of Rest
I think about how much I wrestled with my own season of forced rest. I didn’t want it. I wanted to push through, to keep going, to be strong. But just as God knew what Elijah needed, He knew what I needed too. Rest wasn’t a punishment—it was provision. It was grace.
Maybe you’re in a season where rest feels forced upon you. Maybe you’re exhausted, burned out, or running on empty. Dear friend, the Lord sees you. He is not shaking His head in disappointment or demanding that you power through. He is offering you rest, nourishment, and the reminder that He is the One who sustains you.
Practical Ways to Rest in God’s Grace
Prioritize quiet time with God – Meditate on Scripture and allow His peace to fill your heart.
Listen to your body – If you are feeling weary, don’t ignore the signs. Allow yourself time to recover.
Release the guilt – Resting is not weakness; it is obedience to God's invitation.
Seek His presence daily – Even in the busyness of life, let moments of stillness be a place of refreshment.
Reflection: What Does Resting in His Grace Look Like for You?
Rest, sister.
A Prayer for Rest and Renewal
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your amazing grace and for Your unending provision for every need. Thank You for rest and for Your love that never fails and never gives up. In Jesus' name, Amen.
More Fuel for Your Soul
Psalm 46:10 – "Be still, and know that I am God."
Matthew 6:33 – "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you."
2 Corinthians 12:9 – "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness.'"
Final Thoughts
God’s invitation to rest is an expression of His deep love for us. If you are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, take heart in the truth that He sees you, He cares for you, and He desires to refresh your soul.
If this devotional encouraged you, please share it with someone who needs a reminder of God's rest today.
Meet the Author
Sharon Milius
Sharon and her husband, Chad, reside in Durant, Oklahoma. As a devoted homemaker, she cherishes her quiet time with the Lord, spending hours each morning in His Word—a sacred time she fiercely protects. Sharon has a deep desire to write in a way that glorifies the Lord, whether through a book, a Bible study, or both, and she sees this opportunity as a step in that direction.
Beyond writing, Sharon enjoys gardening, walking, helping her husband on the ranch, and spending time with her two beloved Border Collies. She also finds great joy in traveling to visit their adult children, fellowshipping with friends to grow in Christ together, and, of course, savoring a good cup of coffee. A simple pleasure she delights in is hanging laundry on the clothesline on a bright, sunny day.
Sharon is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside Daughter of Delight in bringing glory to God and is excited for the journey ahead.
