I Used To Think I Had To Do More: Finding Rest in God’s Grace
Life often feels like a race, doesn’t it? We hustle, we strive, and sometimes we wear ourselves thin, believing that doing more equals being more. But what if I told you that true fulfillment doesn’t come from doing, but from being?
In my own journey, I used to think that I had to do more to earn God’s love and approval. I packed my calendar with church activities, volunteer work, and personal projects, convinced that my worth was measured by my output. Little did I know that God was inviting me to a better way—one of rest, grace, and acceptance.
The Burden of “Doing”
Many of us fall into the trap of performance-driven faith, believing that our spiritual lives hinge on our activities.
- Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the expectation to do more?
- Do you find yourself comparing your spiritual journey to others?
These pressures can lead to burnout and frustration. Jesus spoke directly to this struggle in Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV):
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
These verses remind us that Jesus offers us rest from our burdens. His invitation is not to do more, but to lean into His grace.
Discovering God’s Grace
When we shift our focus from performance to grace, we find freedom. Grace liberates us from the chains of expectation, allowing us to engage in our faith joyfully, not out of obligation.
Romans 3:23-24 (NIV) reassures us:
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Imagine living each day rooted not in the fear of failing to meet expectations but in the assurance of God’s unconditional love. This isn’t just liberating; it’s transformative.
Reflections for Your Journey
Take a moment to reflect on your own life:
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In what areas are you trying to earn acceptance or approval?
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How might embracing grace change your perspective on your everyday tasks?
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What would it look like for you to rest in God’s love rather than strive for perfection?
Embracing a New Perspective
God desires a relationship with us—not a checklist of tasks to complete.
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Pray expectantly, asking God to reveal areas where you can release your grip on doing.
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Read Scripture with an open heart, looking for God’s messages of love and grace.
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Spend time in silence, allowing His presence to fill you and revive your spirit.
Remember, you don’t have to do more to be more. You are beloved and valuable just as you are.
Call to Action
As we journey together in faith, let’s encourage one another to embrace grace and find rest in God. What resonates with you from this message?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s support one another in this beautiful journey of faith, where doing more is replaced by simply being in God’s loving embrace!
Your story matters, and as we dialogue, we can inspire each other to find peace and fulfillment in the grace that God graciously extends to us all.
I Used To Think I Had To Do More… on YouTube
