Let me ask you something: When was the last time you gave yourself permission to rest? I’m not talking about that exhausted flop onto the couch at the end of the day, phone in hand. I mean true, guilt-free, soul-refreshing rest. If it’s been a while, I get it—because for years, it was the same for me.
We live in a world that glorifies busyness. Our worth seems tied to how much we can produce, how many hours we work, and how “on” we can be for everyone in our lives. But today, I want to remind you of a simple truth: The God of the universe rested, and so should we. You don’t need anyone’s permission to take a break—God already gave it to you.
The God Who Rested
Let’s go back to the very beginning. After creating the heavens and the earth, God rested. Genesis 2:2-3 tells us that on the seventh day, God finished His work and blessed that day as holy. If the Creator of everything rested, why do we often feel like we can’t?
When I traveled to Israel, I saw firsthand how seriously people took Sabbath. Everything stopped, and I mean everything. Shops closed, traffic thinned, families gathered, and rest became a community event. It was a wake-up call for me. Growing up, I never really saw rest modeled. My mom, a single mother, did everything but rest. And I carried that same mindset into adulthood, thinking rest was lazy or that it was something I had to earn.
But let me tell you something important: The Sabbath is a gift. It’s not something we have to deserve; it’s a rhythm of grace that God built into creation for our benefit.
A Turning Point
My wake-up call didn’t just happen in Israel. I was really convicted when my daughter was diagnosed with Lupus. I knew I couldn’t keep living at an unsustainable pace. I wanted to teach my daughter a different way—to show her, not just tell her, that rest matters, that her worth doesn’t depend on how much she accomplishes. So, I started practicing Sabbath rest, and I’ve kept at it for over seven years now. I still don’t have it all figured out, but I know this: embracing rest has been a life-changing act of obedience and faith.
Exodus 20:8-11 reminds us that the Sabbath is a commandment. It’s not just a good idea; it’s something God knew we needed. He designed us for it, and when we ignore it, we feel it—physically, emotionally, spiritually.
The Cost of Ignoring Rest
I want you to take a moment and reflect. How often do you feel overwhelmed, worn out, or irritable? How often do you go to bed, your mind racing with unfinished tasks, only to wake up already feeling behind? I’ve been there, and I know the toll it takes. We can’t give our best to our families, our work, or our calling if we’re constantly running on empty.
Ignoring rest has a cost. It leads to burnout, exhaustion, and even resentment. God didn’t create us to live in a constant state of hustle; He created us for peace, for balance, and for the delight that comes from being present.
Mark 2:27 says, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” God made the Sabbath as a gift for us. He knew we needed it. And Matthew 11:28-30 gives us Jesus’ beautiful invitation: “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” We don’t have to strive for rest—it’s something Jesus freely offers.
Practical Steps to Embrace Sabbath Delight
Now, I know that taking a whole day off to rest might seem impossible right now. But you don’t need to start with perfection. Start simply. Begin with an evening—maybe Friday after work. Prepare ahead of time, so you can put everything else aside and truly embrace rest. Cook your meals beforehand, clear your schedule, and be intentional about setting this time apart.
Engage in restful activities. If you work with your mind all week, do something with your hands during Sabbath—garden, cook, paint, or play with your kids. If you work with your hands, rest by engaging your mind—read a book, listen to uplifting music, or take time to pray and reflect. Sabbath rest isn’t about doing nothing; it’s about doing things that bring you delight and help you reconnect with God and your loved ones.
You Don’t Need Permission to Rest
One of the biggest lies we believe is that we need to earn rest. But today, I’m telling you: You don’t need anyone’s permission to rest. God already gave it to you. In fact, He commanded it. Rest is about trusting God—believing that He holds all things together even when you’re not striving. It’s an act of faith to lay down your work, your responsibilities, and your worries, and say, “God, I trust You.” Rest isn’t selfish; it’s worship.
What Do You Need Rest From?
I want to encourage you to take this to the Lord. Ask Him, “What do I need rest from? And how can I practice this?” For some of you, rest might mean taking a break from overcommitting. For others, it might be stepping away from your phone or social media. Maybe it’s learning to say “no” more often, so you can protect what matters most.
Picture this: You, leaning back on a Friday evening, the worries of the week set aside, a candle lit, maybe a favorite book in your hand, or playing with your kids with no pressure or rush. Imagine yourself choosing activities that fill you up—coloring, cooking, dancing, or taking a nap. Girl, I promise you, it’s not lazy. It’s necessary.
Embrace the Freedom of Rest
Rest doesn’t just make you feel better—it transforms you. It allows you to show up fully for your family, your calling, and your community. It reminds you that you are not just what you accomplish. You are a beloved daughter of God, and He delights in you—not in your productivity, but in you.
So, gorgeous, it’s time to stop striving. It’s time to break free from the hustle and lean into the rhythm of grace that God has set before you. The God of the universe rested, and He invites you to do the same.
Girl, take a nap. Your soul will thank you for it.
I hope this encourages you to embrace Sabbath rest in your own life. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it. Remember, rest is a gift, and you don’t need anyone’s permission to accept it. Ask God what this looks like for you today—and take that first step toward true rest.
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