Last week, we opened a dialogue about Biblical rest, focusing on the first two characteristics we can take from God’s Word- that we must “Obey Jesus’ Command” of rest, and “Process the Season” we are in. To check out the first section of our Biblical Rest series, click here. Read on to see our next two takeaways from the Word about Biblical Rest.
Characteristic #3: Choose Companions Who Refresh You!
‘Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.’ For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. So, they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves.”
It is likely an intentional choice by the Gospel writer to repeat the phrases “deserted place” and “by yourselves/themselves.” His repetition was not necessary for the reader to understand that the ministry group departed for this time of rest, as Jesus had previously directed. Mark seems to be making a point about companionship in resting. The phrase “desolate place” is set in contrast to the crowds (v. 31, 33) not the other disciples themselves. In other words, a “deserted place” here doesn’t mean “alone.” Jesus’ nuanced point of instruction about rest here is not that desolation must always mean isolation from all people (although there may be a place for this type of rest as well).
Jesus’ point here: who the disciples were with while they rested was just as important as the desolate location where they rested. As you rest and process a busy season of life, choose to surround yourself with people who refresh you, realign your thinking, and give biblical perspective as you process your busy season of life. When possible, avoid those who zap you of your energy or distract your focus.
Characteristic #4: Be Silent before God!
“…For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.”
Could there be a better statement about the hubbub of a busy and hectic life? The disciples ministered to the masses, who were so focused on the disciples and their ministry work that they didn’t even have time to eat! This poignant and descriptive phrase really is the basis for Jesus’ command for them to come aside and rest in a deserted place. This statement emphasizes in bold tones the wisdom of Jesus, as he trains these up and coming ministry leaders after their first formal ministry experience. Significantly, Jesus models this principle later in the chapter, as He departs by Himself to pray (6:45-46).
Biblical rest should involve space to get away from the noise and be silent before God.
Make sure to check back next Friday to read the conclusion of this series, and join us as we learn and grow in Biblical Rest.

Biblical Rest – Part Two
Tags
abi wisser
Angela Burtis
anxiety
Bible
Bible Institute
Bree Hayden
college
community
coronavirus
discipleship
don lough jr
Education
encouragement
Faith
Fear
friendship
Gospel
Grace
Hope
Identity
influence
Justin Cousins
karen smith
meet the alumnus
Ministry
Missions
prayer
Randy Curtis
relationships
rest
Scripture
Shean Phillips
Staff
story
Student Missions
study
Taylor Hurlbert
testimony
the experience
todd kinzer
Truth
word of life bible institute
Word of Life Bible Instiute
word of life podcast
youth ministry
1 thought on “Biblical Rest – Part Two”
Hello, I just want to give thanks to The Lord for blessing me and my church family with an Organization like WOL.
I just came back from camp with my group, and I have to tell you that I was fully blessed, I am a totally different person. Thanks to all of you brothers and sisters at the Island, because of all of you I feel closer to The Lord.
Thanks to Tommy, the praise team, brother Walter, the speaker, Don, the counselors, and every single one of you. I pray the The Almighty continue to bless and keep you. CAN’T TO SEE YOU NEXT SUMMER.