The first Thursday and Friday of the NCAA tournament are my two favorite days on the sports calendar. With 16 games played each day, it is non-stop basketball. As soon as one game ends, I shift my attention to the next matchup without having much time to process the one I just watched. Afraid of missing out on seeing a buzzer-beater, I don’t get much “rest” over these two intense days during March Madness. 
For two days out of the year, I enjoy the busyness of watching continuous basketball. Unfortunately, all too often we end up approaching our everyday lives the same way. We fill our schedules with so many activities, responsibilities, and meetings that we leave very little margin for what truly brings meaning.
This type of mindset and lifestyle cause us to cut out rest and things that should have a higher priority. If we put our attention on an overflowing calendar and an unrealistic “to-do list,” our busyness leaves little room to appreciate the blessings God has given us – including a relationship with Him.
The Bible says in Psalm 127:2 (MSG), “It’s useless to rise early and go to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don’t you know He enjoys giving rest to those He loves?”
Today, let’s evaluate our busy lives to determine if we are missing out on the rest that God desires to give us. If our souls aren’t finding rest in Jesus, let’s be challenged to stop trying to earn the salvation that He has freely given. Instead of draining our bodies and minds with busyness, let’s learn to enjoy our Savior above all else. God loves us and offers us rest. Why not take Him up on His generous offer? I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I’m sorry for my busyness and allowing too much on my plate. I know that when I’m busy I’m not as likely to hear Your voice or spend as much time with You. Please help me to come to You and find rest. Help me to discern what activities or work need to be scaled back, so I can enjoy You and the blessings You give me. Thank you for what Jesus did on the cross for me. In His name, I pray, Amen.
