Finding Respite by Dr. Lynnette Simm

Just the other night I was talking with my husband, Madison, when I was explaining to him about my exhaustion and my need for respite. He stopped me and said, “Why do you keep using that word ‘respite’?” I said, “I’m not really sure.”

So I took a moment and looked up the definition. It wasn’t that I was seeking rest as in I need to sleep or to stop, but it was more true to the definition of respite, to relieve or cease; especially something distressing or trying. 

We have all just come out of the holiday season and while we would love to say that everything was beautiful and magical it was, for most of us, distressing and trying. Some of it has to do with family members and strained relationships, some of it has to do with the distress of travel, and some of it has to do with just wanting things to be perfect.

So the New Year is here and the holiday season has passed. Now is the time to take respite. For some people, that respite will come as soon as school starts, when our children are back into their normal schedules and we are back to our normal work schedules. 

For me, my respite has already begun, as I resolved this year to spend more time in meditation and communication with God. Scripture tells us to meditate on those things that are noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. I have spent so much time worrying about all the “what if‘s.” What I could have, should have, regrets, and missed opportunities, that I have caused myself to become physically ill.

So this year, I challenge you, along with myself, to take respite in the Lord. What does that look like for me? Well, it means taking morning walks with my phone firmly tucked away. It means writing down what I’m grateful for. And it means talking with others about focusing on the positive. 

What would respite look like for you? Quiet time with the Bible and/or journal? Time set aside for prayer and thanksgiving? Do you need nature or a comfy place at home? Whatever you choose, I challenge you. Make this year the year to seek Him more and take respite in His hands.