Photo by Jon Flobrant on Unsplash
In our achievement-oriented culture, rest is often viewed as an indulgence or sign of weakness. Yet Scripture consistently portrays rhythms of work and rest as essential to human flourishing. Finding this sacred balance honors both our productive capacity and our fundamental limitations as created beings.
“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, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates.” (Exodus 20:9–10 ESV)
This commandment establishes a divinely ordained rhythm of work and rest, with specific boundaries for both. By allocating six days for labor and setting apart a complete day for rest, we honor God’s design for sustainable productivity. This pattern reflects the Creator’s own rhythm in Genesis and acknowledges that regular rest is not optional but essential to our covenant relationship with God.
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 ESV)
Jesus extends a personal invitation to all who are weary from work and burdened by life’s demands. By intentionally coming to Christ—turning our attention, concerns, and exhaustion over to him—we discover a deeper dimension of rest. True rest comes not merely from ceasing activity but from connecting with the One who restores our souls and reframes our understanding of work itself.
Spiritual Move: Sabbath—To regular, intentional disengagement from productivity and achievement. By setting aside dedicated time for rest, worship, and delight, we declare that our value doesn’t come from what we produce. Sabbath practice realigns our identity as human beings, not human doings.
Journaling Prompts:
1. What makes it difficult for you to fully rest from your work? What beliefs drive this resistance?
2. Describe a time when you experienced Christ giving you rest in the midst of labor. What made this possible?
Thought and Discussion Questions:
1. How do technology and constant connectivity challenge our ability to practice true Sabbath rest?
2. What practical boundaries have helped you protect time for rest in your weekly schedule?
3. How might our rest serve as a witness in a culture that glorifies busyness and overwork?
4. In what ways does resting well actually enhance our capacity for excellent work?