A Simple Reflection on Rest, Trust, and Salvation
Sometimes, life feels like a constant struggle—running here and there, trying to fix everything ourselves, or worrying about what will happen next. But the Bible gives us a different message: “Cease striving.” In other words, stop trying so hard to control everything. Psalm 46:10 (often paraphrased as “Be still, and know that I am God”) and Isaiah 30:15 both teach us this same lesson.
Isaiah 30:15 says, “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.” This might sound complex, but it’s really simple: when we stop fighting and start trusting God, things change. It’s in the moments when we are calm, willing to return to God, and choose to rest in him that we find true strength.
What Does It Mean to “Cease Striving”?
It means letting go of the need to solve everything on our own. Instead of stressing and worrying, we are invited to simply be quiet, turn our hearts back to God, and trust that he is in control—even when we don’t see the outcome yet.
Returning and Resting in Him
God doesn’t ask us to be perfect or have everything together. He asks us to come to him—to return—and rest. That rest isn’t just physical, but a deep peace in our hearts, knowing that he cares for us and is working for our good.
Stay Calm, Be Willing, and Trust
Strength doesn’t always look like fighting battles ourselves. Sometimes, real strength is found in staying calm, being willing to trust God, and believing that he will deliver us. Salvation isn’t something we earn; it’s a gift from God, given through faith and grace.
Our Greatest Weapon: Trust and Faith
In the book of Revelation, we read about spiritual battles and the power of faith. Our weapon isn’t anger or anxiety—it’s trust. When we go through hard times, God uses these moments, not to destroy us, but to shape us, refine us, and remind us of his mercy.
Why Does God Save Us?
We don’t have anything to offer God that makes us deserve his rescue. He saves us and shows us mercy not because we are perfect, but because it brings him glory. He loves to show grace, and he uses even our struggles to bring us closer to him.
A Simple Prayer
God, help me to stop striving and to rest in you. Give me quietness and trust, and let your grace be my strength. Amen.
Remember, you don’t have to do it all yourself. Be willing, return to God, and rest in his peace. That’s where true strength and salvation are found.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 