o meaningful. We are not just talking about an absence of conflict, but a quality of life that stretches the limits of our comprehension. Such a depth of peace and rest is elusive in our world, but it is normal for the God who created us. For those who are at peace with God, simply experiencing His presence is enough to calm our anxious souls.

Because peace and rest begin with God, it is no surprise that this world is so full of unrest. The mindsets, systems, and expectations that so naturally define our human existence, at nearly every turn, hinder the richness of peace that flows from the kingdom of heaven.

What are some causes of unrest that abound in our world? How about the constant pressure to live up to social standards of performance and appearance? Or the multitude of reasons to fear for ourselves and our loved ones? Or the expectation for non-stop work and availability? Or how complicated we have made life to be with seemingly endless lists of rules? And this is only a sampling!

Thankfully, God's expectations for us are not as overwhelming as we are often led to believe. There is a divine simplicity to the Christian life for those who learn to align with His good design. And more importantly, peace and rest are not just vague ideals that ever elude our grasp; they are qualities of life that can become ours as we adjust our ways to His.

The Search for Rest is a fifty-day devotional designed to help us adjust to God's ways. Each daily reading includes an inspirational quote, Bible passages to read, an instructive lesson, questions for group use, and a practical "Peace Step" to help you apply the principles involved.

Reading this book comes with no guarantee for total life transformation. But if you take its contents to heart, and if you make a genuine effort to follow through on what you learn, you will come away changed. Simply take things one day at a time, with one step after another, and the peace, freedom, and joy that you have always longed for will become more and more and more your reality.