I recently had coffee with a friend who asked a question I can’t stop thinking about: Do you think God allows affliction into our lives to teach us how to relax in him?

The concept of relaxing in God summarizes so much Scripture, so many books. Christian classics and commentaries expound on trusting, waiting and persevering. When you boil all the truth down to one word, I don’t know a better one than “relax.”

It’s a word I needed to hear. It’s helped me reframe my response to hardship. Since I believe God is in control and he’s working everything for my good, why don’t I lighten up?

It’s also a word worthy of meditation. A powerful, comforting command. A reminder that life is more than enduring.

The word is also a call to joy.

“Relax,” I can hear the Lord saying. “I’ve got you.”

This sentiment is sprinkled throughout the Bible. In Psalm 91:1, he tells us, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”

If we dwell with him, we will find rest.

What a comforting thought.

In his shadow,

Tom Harper
Founder, BiblicalLeadership.com
LinkedIn profile | Books