How to Enjoy days of Sabbath and Rest

Apr 6

It was a few years back I realized that I was driving my life like a professional car racer out on the tracks. I was speeding through life, over committed, and and feeling burned out.

Can you relate? Have you struggled with feeling weary, worn out and loss of energy? If yes, today I want to encourage you and chat about sabbath and rest.

After feeling this way for several years, I decided I didn’t want to live my life like that anymore. It was then through Godly mentors, encouragers and the Word that I was encouraged to begin the spiritual practice of Sabbath. A great pastor in my local area introduced me to the book “The Spirit of The Disciplines.” From Dallas Willard. It speaks on so many topics, but I enjoyed the part about sabbath, silence and solitude.

We are human and we can get weary especially after stressful weeks of work, busy seasons and even after challenging situations. Even Jesus got tired and weary. He set time aside to rest.

“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Genesis 2:2. There were times Jesus went away to be alone from all his work, healing and miracles to spend time with God.

What happens if we don’t take time to sabbath, rest, and recharge? We become weary physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. We are more likely to be short tempered, irritable, and less patient with those we care about. It can also lead to illness, lower immune system, and health issues. The mind and body cannot think as precise nor handle difficult or stressful situations. If we are weary and tired, we become an open door for the evil one to tempt us with our actions, tongue, thoughts and behaviors.

Personally, I love taking a day of Sabbath on Saturday’s. I enjoy the extra time to sleep, being in God’s creation hiking or a dance class at the gym. Recently, I have been incorporating more art, writing and creativity into my practice. I enjoy time in community with friends and family. I used to get hung up on the picking of a day but I believe it’s not the day of the week it’s the practice and discipline. It is the purposeful time to rest, slow down, unplug from the noise and recharge. Doing the pleasures and activities that fill you back up mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.

How to begin the Practice of Sabbath

Figure out what day of the week or times of the day works best for you.
Evaluate your schedule, situation, and even your family.
Put it on your calendar and begin practicing Sabbath.
Write out a list of what brings you fulfillment, rest, and true joy.
On your next day of Sabbath/rest day, pull out that list as a reminder of what you love to do and do it.

Bible Verses: Matthew 11:28-30, Exodus 20:8-10, Mark 2:27