A Biblical Look at Rest

We all know that we need and should take time to rest but in today’s incredibly busy 24/7 society we all know that it is difficult. I've had a look at what the Bible says and added in some suggestions which have worked for me.

Sabbath

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. (Genesis 2:2-3 NIV)

In the course of the Creation Story God sets a precedent for all of us to follow. After a week’s intense activity God took a day off to rest. Even God who is all powerful valued rest and went so far as to declare the day of rest as holy. A day that is set apart, we often know this as sabbath.

One way I build this in is to make sure when I'm planning a week to build in times of rest. Also after completing a major bit of work or project make sure the is a time of rest before the next big thing starts if you can.

How can you make sure you plan in sabbath?

Jesus and Rest

The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:30-31 NIV)

Jesus in this passage seems to be aware of when his disciples were beginning to become overwhelmed by all the busyness and encouraged them to rest. We are called to follow Jesus and his disciples so when things get busy we should remember to take time to rest.

If things are really busy try to get a balance of different activities so that while you are doing one thing which you need to get done you are resting from another activity.

As we are all different there are a wide range of different activities which help each of us to find rest. For some a good book in a comfy corner will grant rest, for others time with friends will renew them. We should identify what activities help us as individuals rest and not just do activities which work for others.

What is it that refreshes you? Let us know in the comments.


Written by SCM Member and General Council Trustee Gemma King.