For many years, I would do the stash-and-dash at the first hint of company coming. The problem was: my clutter would pile up behind the closed bedroom door, where I hoped to avoid confronting it. And the side effect of stashing everything in my bedroom? I hated to spend any time there! Piles of mending and ironing reminded me of my procrastination. Stacks of papers taunted me of decisions prolonged. Magazines made me wistful for some time to call my own.

Have you heard that environment affects attitude? When you create an environment that is conducive to rest, your mind will come to accept that it is time to rest when you get there. Fresh sheets, lots of pillows, and soft lighting all convey a restful atmosphere. Making the bed everyday creates a welcoming affect. Why not take a new look at your bedroom, and make one change today toward making it a place where you can retreat?

Jesus said, "Come unto Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." He knew that the cares of life would pile up for each of us. We would need a place to lay down the day's load of relational mending and endless decisions. We would need a place of rest.
Here are some ideas for ending the day in your bedroom/retreat:

1) Read a devotional book, such as Bedtime Snacks for the Soul by Diane M. Komp, M.D.
2) Light a candle in a soothing scent.
3) Massage the day's cares away with a soothing lotion.

Your sweet dreams will enable you to tackle the day with renewed energy!