A few years ago, a Hollywood "star type" was heard to say, "I think we are rushing headlong into oblivion." It may have been a more profound statement than it appeared. At the very least, we are rushing headlong toward something. And the key word is "rushing." We rush to work. We rush to dine. We even rush to relax. I think that last statement must be an oxymoron, but whatever we call it, we certainly are rushing into it. Peace and tranquility are seldom achieved in our pursuit of them. Rather than peace, we are more likely to seek distraction. Noise, visual images, and frantic activity are our constant companions.

Many people have turned to Eastern religions as a means of slowing down the slide to eternity. Others have sought release through drugs. But none of the things men have pursued have brought the desired effect. Everything we do demands an escalation to remain effective. Eventually it is out of control. For many, the only true peace appears to be to drop out. Why do you suppose man has such a difficult time assembling his life? It would appear that he follows the same reasoning in life that he does in those purchases which need assembly. Question: When does he read the instructions? Answer: When all else fails!

There is a Book of excellent instructions for a life of joy and peace, but most have never really read it. They continue to try to force the various parts together in a display of vain pride. The old saying, "Please, I'd rather do it myself," is still very much alive. While that sounds very independent, the truth is that we cannot!

Most have never read it!

I know, O LORD, that a man's way is not in himself; Nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps (Jeremiah 10:23 NASB).

The real answer is found in the Book. There, the master of Heaven and Earth beckons us:

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and YOU SHALL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light (Matthew 11:28-30)(Emphasis added).

Soul rest is what we are really looking for. Everything else has failed, why not read the instructions?