Are you exhausted? Overwhelmed? Lacking focus? Running on fumes, unable to say NO or set boundaries? Do you long for balance in your life? You are not alone. Welcome to The Rest Stop, my name is Ralf. The above phrases have characterized my life more often than I care to admit. This is not how we are designed to live!

In Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus says, Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – Watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (The Message)

Now that’s an invitation worth exploring!

Over the past 4 years I have been on a quest to experience this rest and balance Jesus describes. My primary resource has been the bible. In addition, I have read 35 books and other research materials that address rest and life balance from various viewpoints. As a result, I have made decisions, adopted disciplines, and developed healthy habits that have deeply impacted my life spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically.

I am no expert and still very much consider myself an apprentice. My desire through these short messages called “Rest Stops” is to share the principles and practices I have discovered and learned along the way and encourage you to consider this journey toward greater balance, peace, rest, intimacy with the Lord, and with those we engage with each day.

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