Here is an excerpt from my Book “God’s Rest; Unveiling the Finished Works of Christ on the Cross”, due to be released on March 1, 2024.
In this section, I share something very unique that I personally experienced from co-founding a ministry where we set out to build an authentic Kingdom family from 2015 to 2019.
“Building authentic relationships that support and encourage rest”
In our fast-paced and demanding world, finding true rest can often feel like an elusive goal.
As devoted followers of Jesus Christ, we strive to live out the principles of our faith, including the pursuit of spiritual rest as described in Hebrews 4:10. However, this journey towards rest is not meant to be walked alone. Building authentic relationships that support and encourage rest is vital to our spiritual well-being.
Authentic relationships are characterized by transparency, vulnerability, and a genuine desire to support one another. These relationships go beyond surface-level interactions and create a safe space where we can be our true selves.
In the context of rest, authentic relationships provide a nurturing environment where we can be honest about our struggles, fears, and anxieties. When we share our burdens with trusted friends, they can offer comfort, encouragement, and prayer, lightening our load and reminding us of God’s faithfulness.
To build authentic relationships that support and encourage rest, we must be intentional in our interactions. This involves actively seeking out individuals who share our desire for spiritual rest and are committed to journeying alongside us. It means investing time and energy into cultivating these relationships and prioritizing quality conversations and meaningful connections. In a world saturated with superficial social interactions, authentic relationships require effort, but the rewards are immeasurable.
In these relationships, we can find accountability and encouragement to prioritize rest. Often, in our pursuit of success and productivity, rest takes a backseat. We neglect the importance of Sabbath rest and push ourselves beyond our limits. However, when we have authentic relationships that understand the significance of rest, they can remind us of its necessity and hold us accountable to prioritize it. They can gently challenge our workaholic tendencies and encourage us to find a healthy balance between work and rest.
Furthermore, building authentic relationships that support and encourage rest fosters a sense of belonging and community. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that others are walking a similar journey toward spiritual rest. These relationships provide opportunities for mutual growth, where we can learn from one another’s experiences, share our insights, and support each other’s spiritual development.
In conclusion, building authentic relationships that support and encourage rest is essential for devoted followers of Jesus Christ. As we navigate the challenges of our modern world and seek to unveil the spiritual rest described in Hebrews 4:10, we need the support and encouragement of trusted friends. These relationships provide a safe space for vulnerability, accountability, and growth. By investing in authentic relationships, we can find the support and encouragement we need on our journey towards spiritual rest.
~Dr. Russell G. Welch
Radical Disciples - A Remnant Revolution 