“Work hard, play hard” suggests that one should put a lot of effort and dedication into one’s work or responsibilities but also take time to enjoy life and have fun. It implies that balancing hard work with leisure activities can achieve a fulfilling and well-rounded life.
Many of us live in a fast-paced, demanding environment; we are working hard, sometimes with little play. Burnout is on the rise, and mental health challenges are on the rise. It is all go go go, and I personally see more and more people saying yes to more and more things and getting to a place of burnout, a place of anxiety and depression, a place of no joy and motivation.
Working hard is important, but resting is also very important. God has called us not only to work but also to rest. We know from the Genesis account that God made the entire world in six days and rested on the seventh. Right from the beginning, He established the sabbath day principle for us. It is important to note that God did not rest on the seventh day because He was tired, run-down, or needed a break. He rested out of satisfaction and made it a holy and blessed day. Genesis 2:3, So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.
Embrace intentional rest, not just when you’re exhausted, but as a divine principle and command from God’s Word. Don’t let busyness overshadow the best-God’s rhythm of living, working, and resting. Resting isn’t about finding time; it’s about stepping aside, being refreshed, renewed, and re-energised. This intentional rest will rejuvenate your body and mind and deepen your connection with God.
Resting allows us to quiet ourselves before God and revives our minds, bodies, and spirits. Resting as a spiritual practice is intentional and can be practiced in community, family or alone. Resting puts us in a better place to hear God and abide in Him. God has not called us to be run down or burnt out but to joyfully practice rest as part of our lives and journey with Him.
Do you need to re-introduce sabbath to your life? What would that look like?
Today, Jesus invites you to rest, Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Heavenly Father, thank You for the principle and command to rest. Help me to establish good rest time, not from being run down or tired but from the place of satisfaction and obeying Your Word. Lord, I want to be close to You and hear You. Help me be still in Your presence. Amen.