Do you feel like there's not enough time to catch your breath? Are you always on the edge of tired? Work, family responsibilities, and the myriads of tasks that fill our calendars. Finding time for real rest can seem like an elusive dream.
What most people do is end up cutting all the discretionary things. I don’t have time for a hobby, connecting with extended family, doing the house projects, exercising, going to church…oops! Yeah, I know.
What you need is rest. You may be surprised to know rest includes hobbies, relationships, and even church.
I am not talking about sleep, thought sleep is incredibly important, but rest. Rest includes sleep but is different from sleep. Rest is about how you spend your time awake and asleep.
The usual answer to when will things slow down is, soon. I will get to it soon. Soon is next month, next semester, next quarter, or when you go on vacation. Ah vacation, that will fix it, that will recharge and reset me. Not always.
To quote Carey Nieuwhof “time off won’t heal you when your problem is how you spend your time on."
There's an ancient practice designed to offer us the rest we so desperately need. It's called the Sabbath, and it has deep roots.
John Mark Comer, in his insightful book Practicing the Way, reintroduces the concept of the Sabbath—a day set aside for rest and worship.
In today's world, where productivity and constant busyness are often seen as virtues, the idea of taking an entire day off can feel counter-cultural.
The Biblical Foundation
The concept of the Sabbath is first introduced in the Bible in the story of creation. Genesis 2:2-3 says, "By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done."
This passage highlights two critical aspects of the Sabbath: rest and holiness. It's not just a day off; it's a day blessed by God, set apart for a purpose.
The fourth commandment, found in Exodus 20:8-11, reiterates this importance: "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work."
Here, the Sabbath is not just a suggestion but a commandment, underscoring its importance in the rhythm of life God designed for us. You were built to have days set aside for rest and for God.
The Benefits
There are also some obvious benefits of practicing rest. Yes, I chose the word practicing on purpose. One because anything we are not good at; we need to practice. Two because practicing something implies it is ongoing not a once in while thing.
We often neglect our need for physical rest. Observing the Sabbath gives our bodies a chance to recover from the constant demands placed on them. Medical research supports this, showing that regular rest can reduce stress, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve overall health.
Taking a day to step back from our routine can do wonders for our mental health. It allows our minds to reset, reducing anxiety and promoting clarity. This break can lead to increased productivity and creativity when we return to our work.
The Sabbath is not just about physical rest but also about spiritual rejuvenation. It offers us a dedicated time to reconnect with God, to pray, and to reflect. As a spiritual discipline it deepens our faith and provide a sense of purpose and direction.
Spending quality time with family and loved ones is another significant benefit. Don’t allow busyness to put relationships in the backseat. Sabbath allows us to grow connections, creating a strong personal community. Would you rather get more work done or build more relational strength?
Consider Chick-fil-A, the Christian Chicken place. They close on Sundays.
I know a few believers who get annoyed thinking about where to eat on Sunday, get excited about hitting Chick-fil-A and remember they are closed. Not that that has ever happened to me…
Despite being in a highly competitive industry, Chick-fil-A ranks among the top fast-food chains in terms of sales and customer satisfaction. This decision, rooted in the founders' commitment to honoring the Sabbath, demonstrates taking time for rest can lead to success.
It Won’t Happen Without a Plan
You must plan your week so you can afford to take a full day off. It might involve completing household chores, grocery shopping, kids practices/games or other tasks in advance. Here are a few suggestions:
Unplug from tech and disconnect from work and social media. Turning off your phone and stepping away from screens can significantly enhance your Sabbath experience. Use the time to engage in activities that nourish your soul.
Engage in restful activities Sabbath is not about staring at the wall and contemplating life. Rest doesn't mean doing nothing. Find activities that rejuvenate you—reading, going for a walk, spending time in nature, or enjoying a hobby. The goal is to engage in practices that bring joy and peace.
Worship and reflect, make time for spiritual practices. Attend worship, spend time in prayer, or read the Bible. Reflect on the past week and seek God's guidance for the days ahead.
Spend time with people you love, strengthen your relationships. Have a family meal, play games, or simply enjoy each other's company. Have friends over. These moments create lasting memories and deepen your connections.
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
He meant it!
Trusting Jesus means allowing him to take the things off you that have killed your rest and letting Him be in charge. When Jesus sets your priorities, determines your schedule, and creates a pace your life feels easier, lighter, more restful.
If you want the life of Jesus you must adopt the lifestyle of Jesus. He is not going to bless what is taking you away from God’s best.
The Sabbath is more than just a day off; it's a gift from God. It's a reminder that we are not defined by our productivity but by our relationship with Him.
It's a day to cease striving and to trust that He is in control. By embracing this practice, we can find the rest and renewal we desperately need.
In my own experience with the Sabbath, I realize how much it has transformed my life. Initially, it felt like an obligation, another item on my to-do list. But over time, it became a source of joy and peace.
I am learning to let go of my need to control everything and to trust in God's provision. The Sabbath taught me rest is not a luxury but a necessity.
Practical Challenges and Overcoming Them
One of the biggest challenges is finding the balance between work and rest. Here are some strategies to help you overcome this hurdle:
Set Boundaries: Clearly define your work hours and stick to them. Communicate these boundaries to your colleagues and family. Avoid the temptation to pull out the laptop or check email on your phone “real quick”.
Prioritize Tasks: Focus on completing essential tasks during the week so that you can rest on the Sabbath. You will have to think ahead…and honestly, you will have to make some decisions. It may mean saying no to some invitations, kid activities, and opportunities.
Dealing with Guilt: Many people feel guilty about taking time off, especially in a culture that glorifies busyness. Guilt can hit hard for parents if the kids aren’t constantly involved. That is a fake emotion working hard to keep you from God’s best for your family.
Reject it by shifting your mindset, recognize that rest is a gift from God and a commandment, not a suggestion. It's essential for your well-being. Surround yourself with a community that values rest. Their encouragement can help you embrace the Sabbath
So, make it easy on yourself. Set a day a week to do four simple things:
Stop - break the routine of working at work and then working at home. Stop.
Rest - eat the food you like, wear the clothes you enjoy and spend time on what fills you up. And sneak in a nap!
Delight - enjoy the good things God has given you. Reflect on all He has done for you.
Worship - with your church and in the quiet moments of the day.
It sounds so good...because it is. Receive the gift God wants to give you every week.
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