Teaching Series: Rest in My Arms

Subtitle: Discovering peace, renewal, and strength in God’s embrace

Lesson 1: Invitation to Rest

Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I
Will give you rest.”
Theme: Jesus’ call to the weary and burdened
Practice: Breath prayer: “Lord, I rest in You.”

Opening Reflection

Every journey of renewal begins with an invitation. Jesus does not call the strong or the self-sufficient first-He calls the weary, the burdened, the ones who carry more than they can bear. Rest is not earned: it is received. To rest is His arms is to trust that His yoke is gentle, His burden is light, and His embrace is strong enough to hold us through every storm.

Teaching Points

1. Rest is a Gift, Not a Reward
   God offers rest freely, not as something we must achieve.
2. Rest is Found in Relationship
   It is not about escaping life, but abiding in Christ.
3. Rest Brings Renewal
   

Practical Pathways

Breath Prayer: “Lord, I rest in You” (Repeat slowly during moments of stress.
Reflection Prompt: Write down three burdens you carry today. Offer them to
God in prayer.
Ritual Practice: Set aside 10 minutes of silence this week to simply sit in God’s presence,

Pull Quote
“Rest is not an accessory to faith-it is the embrace that makes faith possible.”

Communal Dimension

Encourage a group or someone to share one burden they are releasing into God’s arms. This practice builds trust and reminds the community that rest is not solitary-it is shared.

Closing Blessing
May you hear Christ’s invitation today: “Come to Me.” May His arms be your refuge,
His presence your peace, and His rest your renewal.