If you’ve done any traveling this summer you have undoubtedly seen those welcome signs along the Interstate that say Rest Area. These strategically placed signs allow the traveler to take a respite from the journey to be refreshed before continuing on. Rest Areas, however, are not designed as destination points—only temporary rest stops.

God has intentionally placed Rest Stop signs in our life journey as well. They serve as a welcome and necessary reminder of our need to refocus our perspective. Sabbath days, holidays, vacations, and retirement are rest stops at which we have the opportunity to put into practice Psalm 46:10: Be still and know that I am God. 

For those of us at that stage of life known as mid-life and beyond (with an emphasis on beyond), remember this: God will never place in our path a sign that says Retirement Stop – Exit Here. 

He may place signs in our path that say Stop (momentarily before going on), or Detour, or maybe a Speed Limit sign, but never a sign that says Exit Here: Retirement Stop—you’ve done your time, so sit back and take it easy.

There may be times in our lives when we need to take a little extra time at the Rest Area to allow God to reshape our priorities and prepare us for what’s next—more like a staging area for this period of our lives. However, we must never let the Rest Area be our destination. Rest areas and staging areas are only for temporary respites—to prepare us for the next stage in God’s purpose for our lives. The Rest Area is a perfect time to reflect and listen to God so that we will be ready for the adventure ahead, which includes spending ourselves as conduits of blessing for another generation. 

If we don’t take time to be still and know God intimately, we will not understand His plan for our lives. On the other hand, if at any time we follow an exit sign along the way, we can be assured that it was not one of God’s signs. Where are you right now—a Rest Area or a Retirement Stop?

GRANDPAUSE: Blessed be to God for the day of rest and religious occupation wherein earthly things assume their true size.
-William Wilberforce