My family and I are in the midst of trying times. As we deal with the daily…moment-by-moment realities of caring for and about a loved one who is very ill, it can be a challenge to find a place of rest and remember to also take care of our own soul.

Our particular familial M.O. is to pretty quickly step into “do” mode. We get moving, going from one thing to the next, so on and so forth, doing the next thing…the next…etc.

All that doing, running to and fro comes fairly easy compared to the resting — the being still that is required to prevent the mental and emotional unraveling that could essentially cripple and render ineffective the true ministry and presence of mind, for the one who needs us most.

One of the reasons being still tends to get put off is because, as soon as we sit still the flood of thoughts rush in regarding all the “what ifs” and the “what abouts”. Thoughts which are quickly followed by waves of emotion that overwhelms and threaten to undo the soul of its peace.

In those moments the Word of God comes alive in our mind, pushing aside all the thoughts that assail, instantly bringing a level of peace and calm to our spirits.

Here are just a few verses for soul peace and comfort:
“I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”.~~Psalm 4:8. Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 23:1-6, Philippians 4:6-7

Stephanie Paul

Stephanie serves as part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America’s Keswick as Director of Women of Character. She has been married for over 30 years to Sesky Paul who is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy. They have two grown children.
Her single focus in ministry at Keswick is to image Christ in grace and truth to wounded and hurting women, encouraging them to make Jesus the truest Lover of their soul and the One in whom all hope lies.

1 http://www.biblestudytools.com/topical-verses/rest-bible-verses/