This week’s blog is one I still struggle with. Our culture pushes a go, go, go mentality. Sundays for me are typically filled with good and godly things—ministry and serving at church. Then I often head home to cleaning, laundry, and preparing for the week ahead. Before I know it, the day is gone, and I wonder: where was the rest?
I struggle to find the balance between worship, serving, and truly resting. What does it look like, practically, for me to honor the Sabbath and keep it holy? And how do I actually live it out in a way that pleases God?
God’s Example in Creation
From the very beginning, God set a rhythm for us. Genesis 2:2–3 tells us that after finishing the work of creation, God rested on the seventh day and made it holy. He didn’t rest because He was tired—He rested to model something for us.
The Sabbath was never meant to be just a “nice idea.” It was designed as a gift, a sacred pause where we remember that life does not depend on our endless effort but on God’s faithful provision.
Rest Is Not Laziness
If I’m honest, sometimes I resist rest because it feels unproductive. But Scripture reminds us that rest is not laziness—it’s obedience.
Laziness avoids responsibility. Rest equips us for responsibility. Laziness drains us, but sacred rest restores us.
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest… you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28–30) His invitation is clear: we don’t need to run ourselves into the ground to prove our worth. We are called to step into His rest.
Renewal for Body and Soul
Mark 6:31 tells us that Jesus looked at His weary disciples and said, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Even in ministry, even in doing good, Jesus knew the human body and soul need renewal. Sacred rest can look like a nap or a slow walk, but it’s also about quieting our hearts in God’s presence. It may mean putting away the to-do list for a while, enjoying time with loved ones, or simply sitting with Scripture and listening.
When we honor sacred rest, we give God room to realign our pace with His presence.
A Weekly Rhythm of Rest
So what does this look like practically? For me, it may mean preparing for the week ahead on Saturday night so that Sunday can be less hurried. It may mean setting aside intentional time on Sunday afternoon to put aside work, turn off distractions, and simply be with God.
Here are a few simple ways you might practice sacred rest:
- Unplug: Step away from emails, social media, and the constant noise of notifications.
- Worship unhurried: Put on worship music, journal your prayers, or spend extra time in Scripture.
- Enjoy creation: Take a slow walk, sit outside, or simply notice God’s handiwork around you.
- Share a meal: Gather with family or friends around the table with no rush to move on.
- Rest your body: Allow yourself to nap, linger, or breathe without guilt.
- Serve from rest, not striving: If you’re serving on Sunday, carve out quiet space before or after to replenish.
“Want practical help to quiet the noise? Read 5 ways to be still and hear God’s voice.
The point isn’t to legalistically “do Sabbath” but to create a rhythm of rest that re-centers your heart on God and refreshes your body and soul.
Living with Purpose: Walking It Out
Sacred rest is not wasted time—it’s a God-honoring choice to trust Him with our time, our work, and our very lives. Slowing down is often the most spiritual thing we can do.
This week, I challenge you to join me in making space for rest. Not the kind of “rest” where we just collapse, but the sacred rest that renews and restores because it’s rooted in Him.
My Prayer for You
Lord, I lift up every reader who longs to live with purpose but feels caught in the rush of life. Teach us to embrace the sacred rhythm of rest that You designed from the very beginning. Show us how to balance worship, serving, and stillness. Restore our souls, renew our strength, and help us honor the Sabbath as holy. May we find joy and peace as we choose to slow down in You. Amen.
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Living Life on Purpose, for His Glory!
Collette