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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: If I’m not organizing the neighborhood picnic or attending a corporate dinner, I’m at work. When I rush off to my weekly Bible study and listen to God’s call to “rest,” it frustrates me, because I really don’t know how to do that. I work hard to stay ahead of tomorrow. Yet I know that rest is not idleness, because Jesus rested as an example to us. I hear people say that rest to them is checking email or their social media, or even the day’s headlines. That’s exhausting. But isn’t time spent in studying the Bible and praying, resting in Him? – W. R.

A: Few people know how to rest these days. Even on vacation, people rush to cram in as much as they can before returning to their jobs. Many need vacations just to rest from vacation! People keep hectic schedules and leave no time for rest, or else are bored and restless. The Bible tells us both extremes are wrong. God didn’t intend for us to be idle, unproductive. There’s dignity in work; however, God does call us to rest.

“Come unto me … and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, KJV). Rest can be found only in one place, from one source – Jesus – who gives us the ultimate rest, the confidence we need to escape the chaos of the world around us. Spending time with the Lord will rest our minds and our hearts. Fellowship with Him renews our spirits. Concerning God’s commands, He says that we should “talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way” (Deuteronomy 6:6–7).

We can also rest in the knowledge that Christ has the whole world in His hands. Despite the headlines that scream out, we know that only God knows about tomorrow.

“In quietness and confidence shall be your strength” (Isaiah 30:15, NKJV). “Rest in the Lord” (Psalm 37:7, NKJV).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

©2026 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c)2026 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.