The Habit of Rest

Good soil requires cultivation. A good way to cultivate the soul is learning to rest well. Tim Keller says, “All of us are haunted by the work under the work— that need to prove and save ourselves, to gain a sense of worth and identity. But if we can experience gospel-rest in our hearts, if we can be free from the need to earn our salvation through our work, we will have a deep reservoir of refreshment that continually rejuvenates us, restores our perspective, and renews our passion” (Tim Keller, “The Power of Deep Rest,” The Gospel Coalition, November 25, 2012). We must develop the habit of rest—both as individuals and in community with others—if we are to cultivate the soil of our souls.