Francis Quarles: Rest

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The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake. Psalm 23:1-3

“If thou desire much rest, desire not too much. There is no less trouble in the preservation, than in the acquisition of abundance.”

Francis Quarles (1592-1644) in Day’s Collacon, compiled and arranged by Edward Parsons Day (New York: IPPO, 1884) 794. I hope you like the new header photo of Upper Deep Creek outside of Lakeview, Oregon.

Sammy and I took this week to go fly fishing because we desired some rest from our work. It’s restful to pause and enjoy God’s creation together.

And it’s only possible to rest when our focus is not preservation or acquisition of material abundance, for no amount or money and things is ever enough to satisfy.

Only in Christ do we have everything we need. He leads us to a place of peace, joy, and contentment that positions us for generosity. He’s a good shepherd who guides us along the right paths.

He’s also been gracious to lead us to quiet waters like the stream pictured above. For another glimpse of the kind of fishing we are doing this week, check out this video: Chewaucan Basin Redband Trout Fly Fishing.