Jenny Donnelly’s “Still: 7 Ways to Find Calm in the Chaos” is a very timely read for me, even more so than when I requested it a few weeks ago. Ironically, due to multiple deadlines and an overall crazy month, I had to read it much more quickly than I would have preferred; I absolutely intend to read it again at a slower pace in order to let the suggestions sink in and reap the maximum benefit. This is a wonderful resource, with personal anecdotes from the author’s life woven in and lending it a warm, conversational tone. An interactive element makes this book appropriate for individual or group study, with lines to write out answers to personal questions and also prayers included in several of the chapters. An appendix includes advice and instructions on how to implement rest into daily life.
Regardless of your background or vocation, “Still” addresses the ubiquitous chaos and turmoil that challenges each of us daily and offers insight into how to move beyond it to calm refreshment and renewal. A point that Donnelly makes early on gives new perspective; she writes that resting is not about avoiding chaos or waiting for things to slow down, but rather being peaceful in the midst of it. Rest has always seemed like something that comes when activity ceases, i.e. a relaxing activity in itself, but here the author makes a clear distinction, remarking that “It is critical to understand where REST exists: REST is an inside place. It exists within you.” How profound! That means that we can rest anywhere, anytime. One of the best ways to make the most out of this gift is by praying continually; as Donnelly articulates, “Dressing yourself in constant expressions of praise is one of the fastest ways to enter the place of REST!”
First and foremost, however, in order to rest we need to relinquish control over all aspects of our lives to God. Focusing on Jesus rather than on the storms raging around us is also an essential part of the process. One of the seven ways to rest that I found most enlightening was the concept of “wrestling into rest.” Donnelly explains that this entails releasing every single thing (an apt acronym for REST), seeing others through God’s eyes of love, and sometimes merely waiting for God to act. Resting, I think, is an ongoing learning experience as we draw nearer and closer to Jesus, whose open invitation is “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
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