"Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours;..." (Rev 14.20)
Among the many things that are taking place in the book of the Revelation, this is perhaps one of the sweetest. Rest, blessed rest. Then, we are reminded of the OT words in Daniel 7.25, "he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High,..."
This blogger has been a child of the Kingdom for thirty-eight years. There have been peaks and valleys, encouragement and discouragement. There have been happy times and sad times. There is no complaint because it is understood that my Heavenly Father has bestowed everlasting love and much grace on this believer. The truth remains, however, that the "spirit is willing and the flesh is weak." (Mt 26.41)
Thus, let us examine "Rest." Blessed Rest.
Rest, as defined in Webster's 1818 dictionary is:
1. Cessation of motion or action of any kind, and applicable to any body or being; as rest from labor; rest from mental exertion; rest of body or mind. A body is at rest when it ceases to move; the mind is at rest when it ceases to be disturbed or agitated;
2. Quiet; repose; a state free from motion or disturbance; a state of reconciliation to God.
Rest in the Hebrew is explained as "quiet or settled." In the Greek, rest is described as "calming" like when tumultuous winds die down.
Daniel prophetically informs us that in the last times it will be the sole purpose of the evil one to "weary the saints." Weariness in the physical, financial, emotional or spiritual realm. The first three characteristics affect the spiritual. Thus the reminder to be "not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Gal 6.9) This blogger must admit a weariness beyond comprehension at times.
That is probably the reason "rest" in the scriptures is so appealing. Without launching into much discussion, just note that "rest" is our end. No more hurt, sorrow, pain, suffering...tears. Blessed thought!
