Achieving True Deep Rest with Jesus: A Guide for Kingdom Women

Ever feel like rest is just another thing on your never-ending to-do list? You're juggling roles, pouring out everything you've got, and still wondering why peace feels so out of reach. Trust me, I've been there. But here's the good news: achieving true deep rest with Jesus isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing less. It’s about stepping into the rest He’s already prepared for you, where stress fades and fulfillment takes over.

Deep rest isn’t just physical; it’s spiritual. It’s tied to who Jesus says you are and what He’s called you to do. Kingdom women like us are part of a bigger plan—a partnership with God where His strength fills the spaces where we’re weak. Can you imagine what your days would feel like if you leaned into that divine partnership instead of carrying everything on your own?

In this post, we’ll explore what it means to abide in God’s rest, unpack biblical truths (like the promise of an easy yoke in Matthew 11:28-30), and share practical ways to live this out. Plus, I'll highlight why community—like the She Meets Community—can make all the difference as we walk this journey. Stick with me, and let’s find that peace you’ve been craving.

What Does It Mean to Achieve True Deep Rest with Jesus?

If we’re being honest, so many of us wear busyness like a badge of honor. We hustle, we push, and we try to “rest” by squeezing in Netflix marathons or aimlessly scrolling on our phones. But real rest—the kind Jesus offers—goes so much deeper. It’s not about checking out for a few hours. It's about a soul-deep reset that completely redefines how we live and thrive. Let’s break it down.

Understanding Rest Through Biblical Perspective

When Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, NIV), He wasn’t inviting us to a temporary escape. This wasn’t a “take a quick nap, then get back to it” kind of offer. No, He was calling us into a full surrender of our heavy burdens—spiritual, mental, emotional, and even physical.

Verses 29-30 go on to say, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” It’s a promise of rest so profound that it transforms the way we approach life. Jesus isn’t just lightening our to-do lists. He’s offering peace that reaches the deepest parts of who we are.

Where worldly rest often feels shallow—like swiping away the crumbs but leaving the dirt—this invitation from Jesus sweeps through your soul. His rest doesn’t just recharge your batteries; it rewires how you carry your daily load. It reminds us that the weight of our lives was never meant to rest on our shoulders alone.

Think about it: How many of us are carrying burdens we were never asked to pick up in the first place? This verse teaches us that real rest starts with trading our overloaded to-do lists for His grace-filled, prearranged plans. It’s less about finishing the marathon with your head barely above water and more about trusting God to guide every step.

How Jesus’ Rest Differs From Worldly Rest

Let’s get real: when the world says “rest,” they’re usually talking about temporary fixes. Think spa days, tropical vacations, or zoning out with Netflix. Now, don’t get me wrong—I love a good beach read as much as the next girl. But these aren’t solutions; they’re distractions. They don’t address the deeper exhaustion we feel when our spirits are stretched too thin.

The rest Jesus offers isn’t a quick pit stop. It's more like stepping onto solid ground after years of feeling like you’re drowning. His rest heals at every level—spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and even physically. It’s not about escaping reality; it’s about being fully restored in the middle of it.

Here are a few examples:

• Worldly rest says: Take a vacation and all your stress will fade.
  Jesus’ rest says: Even in chaos, I’ll anchor you in peace.
• Worldly rest says: Binge-watch a show to forget your responsibilities.
  Jesus’ rest says: Let’s unpack that weight together—your responsibilities aren’t yours to carry alone.
• Worldly rest says: You need to work harder to earn your downtime.
  Jesus’ rest says: My rest is a gift you don’t have to earn.

For kingdom women, this difference matters deeply. For us, rest isn't just about recharging—it’s about renewal. Jesus’ rest allows us to pour ourselves into the things that truly matter, without running on empty. It’s the kind of peace that makes you feel seen, heard, and cared for by the Creator of the universe.

If we’re going to thrive in the divine partnership we’re called to, we need His rest. This isn’t optional. It’s as essential as oxygen. When we try to do life without it, burnout comes calling, leaving us running on fumes and wondering what went wrong.

And here’s the best part: you don’t have to “figure it out” to step into this rest. Jesus has already prepared it for you. There’s nothing you’ve been through—no mistake, no scarcity, no fear—that His rest doesn’t cover. He invites us into rest not because we’ve earned it, but because He knows we desperately need it.

So, no more settling for halfhearted rest or coping mechanisms that don’t heal. The rest Jesus offers changes everything, and it’s available to you right now. Are you ready to embrace it?

Practical Steps to Enter Deep Rest with Jesus

You don’t have to hustle your way to the rest Jesus offers. In fact, the kind of rest He gives is about stepping away from the chaos, not trying harder to fix it. But let’s be real for a second—how many of us actually know how to do that? If you’re like me, it can feel easier said than done. The good news? It’s totally possible to practice deep, restorative rest with Jesus by embracing a few intentional habits. Let’s break it down.

Creating Intentional Quiet Time with Jesus

We live in a noisy world—constant notifications, endless to-do lists, and the never-ending scroll. Finding quiet time with Jesus feels impossible, but it’s essential. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Notice it doesn’t say, “Multitask while you think about God.” Being still is the starting point for deep rest.

Here’s how I make it work:

• Set a specific time daily. Whether it’s first thing in the morning or during your lunch break, put it on your calendar like any other non-negotiable appointment.
• Eliminate distractions. Turn off your phone or leave it in another room. Grab a journal and find a quiet space—your bedroom, a park bench, or even your car before errands.
• Start small if needed. Even 10 minutes of prayer or sitting in silence can reset your heart.

This quiet time isn’t about structured perfection; it’s about showing up and letting Jesus meet you. Think of it as a recharge station for your soul.

Practicing Surrender and Trust

News flash: You don’t have to carry it all. I know, shocking, right? Yet how often do we say we trust God but still white-knuckle our problems like we’re the CEO of the universe? Deep rest starts when we practice true surrender.

Proverbs 3:5-6 lays it out simply: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

When worries creep in (and let’s be honest, they always do), here’s what I do to practice surrender:

• Name what’s weighing you down. Write it down or say it out loud during prayer.
• Hand it to Jesus. Quite literally say, “Lord, I’m giving this to You. I trust You with the outcome.”
• Refocus your mind. Instead of replaying worst-case scenarios, meditate on God’s faithfulness in past seasons.

Surrendering doesn’t mean life is instantly stress-free. It means trusting the One who’s already worked it all out. Like loosening your grip on a heavy shopping bag—Jesus gladly carries it for you.

Immersing Yourself in God’s Word

If your mind feels like a swirling mess, God’s Word is your anchor. Scripture isn’t just encouragement; it’s alive and active—God speaking directly to you. Isaiah 40:29-31 reminds us of His sustaining power: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak… those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”

Here are some practical ways to immerse yourself in His Word:

• Start with small passages. Maybe one chapter a day. Focus on verses about God’s promises, like Psalm 23 or Matthew 11:28-30.
• Try Bible journaling. Reflect on what you’ve read by jotting down insights, prayers, or even doodling key themes.
• Use scripture as prayer. For example, turn Isaiah 40:29-31 into a personal prayer, asking God to renew your strength.

The more you fill your heart with His Word, the less space you leave for fear, anxiety, or overwhelm. Scripture becomes the foundation where deep rest is built.

Inviting the Holy Spirit in Daily Life

Here’s the thing about rest: it’s not a DIY project. The Holy Spirit is your helper, your guide, and your constant source of peace. Jesus even said in John 14:26-27, “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things… Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.”

If you want to experience this peace every day, you need to make room for the Spirit. How? Try incorporating Him into the rhythm of your day:

• Start your mornings with prayer. Before checking your phone, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your steps and fill you with peace.
• Worship throughout the day. Whether it’s singing along in the car or playing worship music at home, worship makes space to connect with God’s presence.
• Pause and ask for His guidance. Feeling overwhelmed? Stop for a moment and pray, “Holy Spirit, I need Your help right now.”

Inviting the Holy Spirit in isn’t complicated—it’s about building a habit of turning to Him first, rather than as a last resort. Over time, you’ll start noticing that His rest quietly transforms the way you handle life’s stressors.

Deep rest with Jesus isn’t a one-time thing; it’s a lifestyle of connection, trust, and reliance on His strength. These aren’t rules to check off; they’re daily practices that anchor you in His rest, no matter what comes your way.

Overcoming Challenges to Resting in Jesus

Resting in Jesus sounds beautiful in theory, right? But let’s be real—life can feel like a constant swirl of distractions, doubts, and demands. For so many of us, finding rest feels like trying to hold water in our hands: no matter how hard we try, it slips through. So how do we break free and truly enter into His rest? Let’s walk through some practical ways to address the unique challenges that block us from experiencing the deep rest Jesus offers.

Dealing with a Distracted Mind

Ever sit down to pray and within two minutes, you’re thinking about groceries, that text you forgot to answer, or why your dog is acting weird? The struggle is real. Our minds are constantly pulled in a million directions, making it hard to fully connect with Jesus.

If you’re battling distractions, Philippians 4:8 is a lifesaver: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Here's how you can stay spiritually focused:

• Journal your thoughts. Before starting prayer or reflection, write down those random thoughts swirling in your head. What you’re worried about, your to-do list—dump it all onto paper. Once it’s out of your mind, it’s easier to focus.
• Meditate on Scripture. Choose a verse (like Philippians 4:8) and repeat it slowly, letting its truth sink into your heart. Think of this as anchoring your mind when it starts to wander.
• Set the atmosphere. Eliminate obvious distractions—turn off your phone notifications, find a quiet space, and even light a candle if it helps signal to your brain that this is intentional time with Jesus.

When you redirect your thoughts toward what’s good and pure, it’s like tuning a radio to the right frequency. The world’s noise fades, and you hear God’s voice so much clearer.

Navigating Resistance and Doubts

Let’s talk about the inner critic—the one that whispers, “Who are you kidding? You’re not good enough for God’s rest.” Yeah, that voice. Doubts like inadequacy or unworthiness often creep in, keeping us from fully receiving what Jesus has already promised.

But listen: Romans 8:1 says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Did you catch that? If you’re in Christ, there’s zero condemnation. None. Not from God, and not even from your past mistakes. Here’s how to shut down those doubts:

• Speak truth out loud. When negative thoughts pop up, respond with scripture like Romans 8:1 or 2 Corinthians 5:17, which reminds us that we’re new creations in Christ.
• Practice gratitude. Sometimes, thanking Jesus for His love pulls us out of a self-critical spiral. What has He done for you? Keep a list of answered prayers or moments where you’ve seen His faithfulness.
• Visualize His kindness. Picture yourself standing before Jesus. Do you think He’s handing you a list of your failures or inviting you to sit down and rest? Spoiler alert: He’s all about the invitation.

The thing about doubts is that they’re loud, but they’re also liars. Jesus has already equipped you to thrive in His rest; you just need to trust what He says over what your insecurities scream.

Balancing Rest and Responsibilities

Let’s get practical here: how do you make space for spiritual rest when your schedule feels packed tighter than a carry-on suitcase? Between work, family, social commitments, and everything in between, rest can feel like just another item on the to-do list. But here’s a truth bomb: Jesus Himself knew how to balance work and rest.

In Mark 6:31, Jesus told His disciples, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” This was after a busy season of ministry. If Jesus made time for rest, so should we. Here’s how:

• Say “no” so you can say “yes.” Not every invitation or opportunity needs a “yes.” Let go of what doesn’t align with God’s priorities for your life.
• Schedule rest like an appointment. Block time on your calendar for quiet moments with Jesus. Whether it’s early morning before the kids wake up or during your lunch break, treat it like an important meeting.
• Invite rest into your daily rhythm. Rest doesn’t always require hours of free time. Sometimes, it’s taking 10 minutes to close your eyes and breathe deeply, pray while washing dishes, or listen to worship music while commuting.

Think of rest as a recharge rather than an interruption. Just like a phone needs to be plugged in to work properly, you’re at your best when you stay connected to Jesus. The demands won’t go away, but the energy and peace you’ll gain will make you far more effective.

Resting in Jesus isn’t just a feel-good idea; it’s a necessity. Overcoming challenges like distractions, doubts, and busyness takes intentionality, but it’s more than doable because we don’t face these struggles alone. Jesus is actively walking with us, offering rest in every imperfect moment. And guess what? When we embrace this rest, it refreshes not just us but everyone around us too. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s keep going!

The Transformative Benefits of Resting in Jesus

When we think about rest, our minds often go to sleep, lazy weekends, or stepping away from responsibilities for a bit. But the kind of rest Jesus offers goes far beyond these surface-level ideas. It’s a rest that works deep within us, reshaping how we see ourselves and our relationship with Him. When we fully embrace resting in Jesus, the changes we experience aren’t just nice—they’re transformative. Let’s look at how this rest has the power to strengthen your faith, refresh your emotions, and realign your purpose.

Strengthened Relationship with Jesus

Have you ever noticed that your closest friendships thrive during moments of quiet connection? It’s not in the hustle of busy schedules, but in those peaceful, one-on-one moments that relationships deepen. The same is true with Jesus. When we intentionally rest in Him, we create space for a heart-to-heart connection that strengthens our relationship like nothing else can.

Resting in Jesus helps us experience His grace in a personal way. It’s in those still moments that we’re reminded He isn’t keeping score of how well we measure up. Instead, He’s inviting us into a friendship built on love and understanding. John 15:15 backs this up: “I no longer call you servants… instead, I have called you friends.” Isn’t that incredible? Rest pulls us closer to Him, transforming our walk with God from a checklist of duties to a fulfilling friendship.

When I carve out time to rest in Jesus, I’m reminded that He’s not waiting for me to “get it all together.” He delights in just being with me. It’s not about how much I do for Him; it’s about staying close, learning from Him, and letting Him guide every step.

Inner Peace and Resilience

When Jesus left His peace with us, He wasn’t kidding around. In John 14:27, He says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” That peace isn’t just something we feel in fleeting moments—it’s a peace that runs deep, anchoring us when life feels chaotic.

Think of Jesus’ peace as a solid foundation under your feet. The world might feel like a storm, but when you rest in Him, you’re unshakable. What’s interesting is how this inner peace strengthens our resilience. Trusting Him fully gives us the capacity to handle life’s challenges without crumbling under the weight.

Whenever anxiety starts bubbling up and I feel stretched too thin, I remind myself of His promise. I’ll take a breath, pause, and say, “Jesus, I trust Your peace more than my worry.” It’s amazing how real that peace becomes when I hand over my stress. It doesn’t always mean life is suddenly perfect, but it does mean I’m leaning on a strength bigger than my own.

Renewed Purpose and Joy

Here’s the thing about rest in Jesus: it doesn’t just calm us down—it revives us. When we stop striving and pause long enough to hear His voice, something incredible happens. We start to see the bigger picture. Rest renews our sense of purpose, reminding us why we’re here and what we’re meant to do for the Kingdom.

Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” That joy isn’t manufactured; it comes from knowing God is working everything out, even when it feels like a mess. Resting in Him unlocks that joy, giving us fresh energy to keep going.

As kingdom women, we’re not meant to run on empty. Resting allows us to pour into the things God’s called us to without burning out. Think about it: how much more effective could you be if your efforts flowed from a place of joy instead of exhaustion?

When I take time to rest, I notice a shift in how I approach my purpose. That overwhelm that used to sit in my chest? Gone. It’s replaced with clarity and excitement for what God has prepared in advance for me (Ephesians 2:10). Rest sweeps away the clutter and reminds me that this partnership with Jesus isn’t just productive—it’s fun.

Resting in Jesus isn’t passive; it’s active trust. It enriches your relationship with Him, gifts you with unshakable peace, and refuels your joy for the work He’s called you to do. This type of rest doesn’t just help us survive; it empowers us to thrive in every area of life.

Conclusion

Deep rest with Jesus isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. As kingdom women, we weren’t made to hustle through life on empty. His rest restores, renews, and equips us to live out the purposes He’s already prepared for us. It’s about letting go of the pressure to carry it all and stepping into the peace He’s promised.

So, where do you start? Take intentional steps, whether it’s quiet time with Him, trusting Him with your worries, or letting the Holy Spirit guide your day. This kind of rest doesn’t come from striving—it comes from abiding. Remember, Jesus isn’t asking you to do more; He’s inviting you to rest in what’s already done.

Don’t put this off. Make entering His rest a priority—not just for your sake, but for those you’re called to serve. And if you’re looking for a community to walk alongside you on this journey, the She Meets Community is here. Together, we can embrace this rest and thrive in the life God designed us to live. Are you ready to take that step? Let’s do it together.