Out of all the Founding Fathers, George Washington stood out for being reserved and cautious. He was deeply concerned with how his words might be perceived, so he spoke carefully and directly. Unlike Jefferson, Adams, or Franklin, he wasn’t known for his amazing rhetoric or poetic expression. In fact, he was no poet at all.
Most of his poetic expression was seen in his frequent quoting of one particular verse of the Bible—Micah 4:4.
But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree, and no one shall make them afraid, for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.
Micah 4:4 (ESV)
Washington referenced this verse more than fifty times in his writings and letters! It was a symbol for the life he longed for. He wanted a life of simplicity and rest. Yet this verse is not about a President’s retirement plan. This prophecy pointed to a future time when the Lord Jesus Christ would reign with justice and peace, when the nations of the world would no longer take up arms against one another, and fear would disappear because all threats that could frighten us would literally not exist.
In the spirit of Micah 4:4, you have the freedom to sit down. So take a load off this weekend. Maybe you’ve earned it. If you don’t sit under your favorite tree, sit in your favorite chair. But don’t just sit still, empty of thought or purpose. Rest in Jesus. Right now, you have that privilege. Contemplate his goodness in your life and the victory he won for you on the cross.
Turn off the noise. Enjoy the simplicity of just sitting still for a bit, and let it stir your heart for the day when peace won’t just be a moment, but an everlasting reality.
Bee-Attitude
Blessed are you who sit still and rest in Jesus today, for this is a foretaste of the greater rest to come.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
