The Radical Pursuit of Rest

Escaping the Productivity Trap

by John Koessler

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Pub Date Feb 01 2016 | Archive Date Apr 06 2016

InterVarsity Press | IVP Books

Christian | Self-Help

Description

Rest is not automatic or easy to attain.

We live in a culture that values activity, achievement and accomplishment. Whether in our careers, churches, schools or families, busyness is the norm in our lives, and anything less makes us feel unproductive and anxious. We have to work all the harder, then, to pursue true rest in a 24-7 world that is constantly in motion.

John Koessler understands that rest is not automatic or easy to attain. He names the modern-day barriers to becoming people of rest and presents a unique perspective on how pursuing rest leads us to the heart of God. With honest, biblical reflections on trends in our culture and churches, he exposes our misconceptions regarding the concept of rest, as well as offering correction and practices to align our ideas with God's ideal.

The book includes reflection and discussion questions designed for both individual and group use. You will discover the true meaning behind Jesus' idea of the yoke of rest and restoration for your mind, body and soul.

Advance Praise

"Hurry, crowds and noise are enemies of the soul. Our addiction to busyness hides the path to true life. In The Radical Pursuit of Rest, John Koessler shows us a more excellent way. It is the way of Christ. Read this book and learn the unforced rhythms of grace."
—H. B. Charles Jr., pastor-teacher, Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Florida

"We live in a restless world in desperate need of those who would invite us into the restful, unhurried kingdom of God. John Koessler provides just such an invitation. The Radical Pursuit of Rest is biblically rich, theologically well-rooted and thoughtful throughout. I encourage you to read it as a good guide into God's gracious and multifaceted gift of rest."
—Alan Fadling, executive director, The Leadership Institute, author of An Unhurried Life

"Here is the extravagant promise of John Koessler's wise, pastoral book: none of us needs to work harder at rest. Rather, rest is laid at the table of grace, which God himself has prepared. In this way, it is rescue for the weary and hope for the heavy-laden. When we realize that God hasn't invited us to share his busyness but enter his rest, we reclaim the holy leisure of worship. That's an invitation I can't seem to resist, and I'm thankful Koessler has made it so clearly and compellingly."
—Jen Pollock Michel, author of Teach Us to Want

Available Editions

EDITION	Paperback
ISBN	9780830844449
PRICE	$16.00 (USD)

Additional Information

Average rating from 13 members

Featured Reviews

Rosa S, Educator

Wow - made me rethink life as usual in American culture.

What does God mean when he calls us to a life of rest? This exploration of how spiritual rest is lived out is both startling and challenging.

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Deborah W, Reviewer

"The Radical Pursuit of Rest" is about pursuing the physical and spiritual rest that's a gift from God. The author looked at Scripture's description of rest and contrasted it to the busyness and restlessness that our culture promotes. He showed how rest is a gift from but also a surrender to God as we must trust that our worth and safety does not depend upon our efforts.

The author discussed the Sabbath, Lord's Day, and worship as well as sloth, selfish ambition, and the fear of the unknowns in our future and in death. The book included questions at the end of each chapter and at the end of the book for individual or group study. Overall, the author was easy to understand. I did pause on occasion to think over what he'd said, but it was not due to confusion or lack of clarity. I'd highly recommend this thought-provoking book.

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Kenson G, Reviewer

We need to rest. This books help us to understand what thats means. Really necessary at this time filled with anxiety and much activism. You will love this book...and you will rest.

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Rachelle S, Reviewer

In my work one of the central self sabotages that I run into is a plethora of misconceptions on what rest looks like and how we find it. With so many misconceptions it's no wonder that people in ministry so often reach a place of burn out. Koessler's book adds a beautiful and resonant voice to the conversion surrounding the Biblical idea of rest.

As this is a core concept that I engage with (both in my own life and as a Spiritual Director) I have read just about every book that I have come across on the subject and I honestly wondered if The Radical Pursuit of Rest would bring any new insights to the table. It went above and beyond my expectations! Specifically I deeply appreciated the discussions about rest as a place and the unraveling of the Biblical idea of sloth.

This book has joined my short list of recommendations on the subject alongside Buchanan's The Rest of God (which is also wonderful, but has a slightly different focus and a greater emphasis on practical application).

I highly recommend this book.

I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to provide a positive review.