It’s likely no one has to convince you that life is busy. Whether you’re running from one meeting to the next, juggling responsibilities at home, or working tirelessly to guide others in their own journeys, the challenge of balancing it all can feel overwhelming. Sound familiar? Then it’s time to talk about rest—and not just any rest, but Sabbath rest.
Sabbath isn’t just an outdated concept reserved for Sunday mornings or binge-watching TV because you’re burnt out. It’s holy, restorative, and essential for your body, mind, and spirit. Here’s why Sabbath matters, especially for urban leaders, youth pastors, and young adults navigating the demands of life.
What is the Sabbath?
At its core, the Sabbath is a rhythm established by God Himself. It’s rooted in creation, where, after six days of making literally everything, God rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3). The Sabbath is not a suggestion; it’s a command. Yet, it’s not a burden but a gift (Mark 2:27).
The Sabbath is more than just taking a day off from work. It’s about ceasing from striving, delighting in God’s presence, and leaning into a deep, holy pause that replenishes us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s a countercultural act of faith where we trust that the world can spin without us.
Why Your Body Craves Sabbath
1. Restoration is a Human Need
There’s a reason God instructed us to rest. Our minds and bodies need time to recover from the constant go-go-go pace of life. Without rest, we face burnout, stress, and, eventually, a complete inability to function well. Studies show that regular rest reduces health risks like anxiety, depression, and insomnia while boosting creativity and productivity. Rest isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom.
2. Limits Are Part of God's Design
Spoiler alert: You’re not a superhero. And guess what? You’re not supposed to be. God designed humans with limitations—we’re meant to work with perseverance and to rest in rhythm. Sabbath reminds you that you're not defined by what you produce. It’s a gentle yet powerful protest against hustle culture.
3. Sabbath Reconnects the Whole Self
Your body, mind, and spirit are interconnected. While Netflix might entertain, it doesn’t truly replenish your soul. Sabbath invites us to restore all that we are. It becomes a holistic practice where stillness, play, spiritual reflection, and sometimes even naps, come together to rejuvenate us.
When You Don’t Rest, You’re Not Okay (and Neither is Your Ministry)
If you lead or pastor others, here’s the hard truth: burnout doesn’t just affect you. It trickles down to everyone you serve. You're the potter shaping the clay, but you can’t pour into your people if you’re empty. Ignoring Sabbath isn’t just unhealthy; it’s unbiblical.
Where does this leave the leaders and young adults who push through, thinking they don't have time to rest? The answer is simple but counterintuitive. You don’t have time not to.
How to Practice Sabbath Like You Mean It
1. Define Rest for Yourself
What fills your soul? What feels restorative instead of draining? Sabbath doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all blueprint. Maybe it’s a walk in the park, journaling in a coffee shop, reading a good book, or simply taking a nap. Define rest in a way that matches the rhythm God designed uniquely for YOU.
2. Set Boundaries for Work and Social Media
Your phone will tempt you to scroll through TikToks of golden retriever puppies or answer "urgent" emails on a Saturday morning. Resist the urge! Leave work emails, tasks, and notifications for tomorrow. Sabbath forces us to disconnect from distractions and reconnect with God.
3. Lean Into Community
Sabbath can be as much about sharing joy with others as it is about stillness. Laughter over a meal with loved ones or a quiet group prayer can be sacred too. Surround yourself with people who encourage true rest and reflection.
4. Prepare Ahead
Practicing Sabbath doesn’t mean waking up and figuring it out on the fly. Plan to get your work done beforehand so you can enter rest guilt-free. Buy groceries, tidy up, and knock out emails so there’s no mental noise nagging at you.
5. Refocus on Worship
Use Sabbath as an opportunity to shift your gaze upward. This isn’t just rest from work; it’s rest with God. Spend time in prayer, reading scripture, or simply soaking in His goodness. Sabbath is a gift that calls us into deeper connection with our Creator.
6. Make it a Regular Rhythm
Sabbath isn’t a one-time vacation; it’s a weekly practice. Even Jesus modeled this rhythm, routinely stepping away from the crowds to be alone and rest. Build this discipline into your life like any non-negotiable priority.
Living Out Sabbath in an Urban World
Urban leaders and young professionals often wrestle with the louder, faster rhythms of city life. But Sabbath is your rebellion against noise. If you're a youth pastor, imagine modeling this rhythm for the students you lead. If you're a young adult learning to balance work and faith in the city, Sabbath refocuses your priorities and brings clarity to your purpose.
Taking time to honor the Sabbath isn’t selfish. It’s obedience. Beyond yourself, it sets an example for those watching you. When you live in balance, it preaches a sermon better than any words you could string together.
Trust the God Who Holds the World
Finally, rest is an act of holy trust. God invites us to Sabbath not because He needs us to rest, but because we need it. When you take a step back, you acknowledge that it’s God, not you, who holds everything together. And you get to exhale. Because in Him, all things stand secure—even when you’re sitting still.
Feeling like rest is long overdue? Start small. Start this week. Your body, mind, and ministry will thank you.
Looking for practical ways to align your Sabbath with your life's purpose? Book a one-on-one session with our team today. Together, let's find your rhythm of holy rest.