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Finding Balance: The Power of Rest in a Busy Life


A picture-perfect day of rest

One knows it’s terrible when God initiates a “come to Jesus meeting” with you. Such is the case for me as God, in the form of my grandmother, Viola, who told me to “get somewhere and get easy.” If you’re not familiar with that phrase, let me explain. It’s not just about resting; it’s about stepping back, recalibrating, and finding peace during life's chaos. And I’ve learned that lesson, perhaps a little too late, but I’m finally listening.

 

Since 2021, I’ve been running on all cylinders as Coach Sherri, Chaplain Sherri, and Community Pastor Sherri from the 800 block of Mooney Avenue. Let me tell you, each of these roles comes with its own set of responsibilities, challenges, and joys. I’ve juggled them all with what I thought was grace, handling each part of myself like a pro. I like to think I’m pretty good at what I do, and I genuinely enjoy moving in and out of these roles. But if we’re honest with ourselves, even the most gifted, talented, and anointed individuals — like me (and maybe you) — can lose sight of themselves when they’re constantly doing for everyone else.

 

And that’s where I find myself now. Over the last few days, it has been confirmed and established through people, places, and my body that the doing has overshadowed my being. My body has been screaming for rest, my mind has been yearning for clarity, and my spirit has been thirsty for peace. That’s when I heard the call from my grandmother’s wisdom, as clear as day: “Get somewhere and get easy.”

 

Let me be clear: resting doesn’t mean I will sit idly and rock. Resting means being intentional about what I do when I do it, and why I am doing it. It means stopping the cycle of doing things out of obligation or simply because I’m capable and instead aligning myself with what truly matters. Resting isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s a vital part of my journey toward what's waiting for me on the other side of this “door.”

 

So, I’ve devised a plan to ensure that I don’t just exist in this hustle but thrive in the balance. Here’s how I will walk this path and step into my next season of life with a rested and rejuvenated soul.

 

1. Reject What Drains Me More Than It Brings Me Joy


This one is hard but necessary. I’ve been saying “yes” to things out of love, loyalty, or sheer willpower for so long. But I’ve learned that not everything that can be done should be done. I’m now in a season where I will no longer give my energy to things that drain me more than they fill me. Even those things I like to do or want to do will be subject to scrutiny. If it doesn't align with my values, goals, and dreams, it's time to let it go. This is about protecting my peace.

 

2. Readjust My Priorities and Focus


I am a woman of many hats — Coach, Chaplain, Pastor — but I am also a woman with limits. My mental and emotional capacity is not unlimited, and I must be intentional about where I pour my energy. I’ve learned that it’s okay to say no, to step back, and to choose my battles wisely. This means focusing on what truly moves me forward and letting go of the noise. When I readjust my focus, I am not sacrificing my dreams or goals, but I am setting healthier boundaries that will enable me to be my best self, both in service to others and in my personal growth.

 

3. Reach My Goals Rested, Relaxed, and Rejuvenated


For so long, I equated hustle with success. I pushed myself beyond my limits, thinking that I needed to keep going, doing, and working to get ahead. But I’ve realized that true success doesn’t come from exhaustion—it comes from alignment. When I am rested, mentally clear, and emotionally balanced, I can approach my goals with focus, creativity, and joy. That’s the kind of success I want to achieve. I’m not rushing anymore. I’m choosing to pace myself, to work smarter, not harder, and to honor my need for rest so that I can show up as my best self.

The journey to prosperity and fulfillment isn't just about what you do but how you do it. For me, it’s about being intentional in my rest so that I can live out my calling fully without sacrificing my peace or well-being in the process. I invite you,to consider your journey. Are you doing more than you’re being? Are you resting and refueling for the next phase of your life? If not, maybe it’s time for your own “come to Jesus meeting.”


Rest your eyes, reset your focus, and prepare for what God has next. There's power in the pause.


I hope this post resonates with you as much as it did with me. Don’t forget to follow my journey and share your own in the comments. You’re not alone on this path. Together, we can rest, refocus, and rise stronger than ever. #RestIsRevolutionary #BlackWomenInFaith #IntentionalLiving #ProsperityThroughBalance #GodsTiming

 

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2 Comments


lindamathis1
Dec 17, 2024

I just completed reading the book Resilient Ministry: It talks about how pastors thrive in ministry. One chapter is dedicated to self-care. As ministry leaders taking the time to do responsible self-care is actually a way to deny oneself. It's not selfish taking time off to take care of yourself, I mean get enough sleep, eat right, and exercising. I agree Dr. Sherri, it is ok to say no to overloading yourself to the point of exhaustion both mental and physical, when you are so tired you just feel sick and deep down you just want to have a good cry. Whenever I listen to myself and give me the care it needs, I do so not just for…


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Sherri Jackson
Sherri Jackson
Dec 18, 2024
Replying to

Linda,

Thank you for your thoughtful response. I applaud you for listening to your body. It has taken me some time to listen to my body, but I'm glad that I am doing so now.

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