We all crave rest. Life can be overwhelming, and in our exhaustion, we look for ways to escape the chaos. Some turn to vacations, entertainment, or even numbing distractions like social media or binge-watching shows. Others may chase temporary comforts in food, relationships, or even substances. While these things can offer momentary relief, they don’t provide the deep, lasting rest our souls truly need.
So, what’s the difference between worldly rest (escapism) and true soul rest in God?
1. Worldly Rest: Temporary Escape
Worldly rest often looks like:
- Scrolling endlessly on your phone to “zone out”
- Booking a vacation, hoping a change of scenery will bring peace
- Binge-watching TV shows to avoid thinking about stress
- Overeating, overworking, or overindulging to numb pain
- Seeking validation from people instead of God
While none of these things are necessarily wrong, they become a problem when we use them as our main source of relief. Why? Because they don’t actually restore us. They provide temporary distraction but leave us needing more.
Jesus calls this type of pursuit a “thirst” that never truly satisfies:
“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.” — John 4:13-14
Worldly rest is like drinking salt water—momentarily satisfying, but ultimately leaving us more depleted.
2. True Soul Rest: Lasting Peace in God
True rest isn’t about escaping life’s pressures—it’s about finding peace in the middle of them. This kind of rest can only be found in God.
Jesus invites us to experience this deep soul rest:
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
This isn’t just physical rest; it’s spiritual renewal. It means:
- Knowing we don’t have to strive for love or approval—God already accepts us
- Trusting that we don’t have to control everything—God is sovereign
- Releasing our burdens through prayer instead of carrying them alone
- Finding joy and contentment in God, rather than chasing fleeting pleasures
When we rest in God, we don’t need to escape reality because He gives us strength to face it with peace.
3. How to Find True Rest in God
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, instead of running to distractions, try these steps to cultivate true rest in God:
- Spend time in His presence – Worship, pray, and read His Word daily.
- Be still – Let go of the need to constantly do and simply be with God.
- Trust Him with your burdens – Hand over your worries to God instead of carrying them alone (1 Peter 5:7).
- Embrace Sabbath – Set aside intentional time for rest and spiritual refreshment.
- Seek community like the Eden Retreat – Surround yourself with people who encourage your faith and point you back to God.
Worldly rest offers temporary relief, but God offers deep renewal. Instead of chasing fleeting escapes, let’s find true rest in His presence—where peace, joy, and restoration are found.
Are you weary? Join one of our retreats and find the soul-deep rest you’ve been searching for.
