The best way to know how to care for a product is to ask its manufacturer. As humans, we also have a manual, God’s Word, the Bible. It teaches us how to care for ourselves holistically. It is full of wisdom designed to help us live joyful, balanced lives. One key requirement scripture proposes to achieve a balanced life is rest. In the Ten Commandments, God says “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” Exodus 20:8 NKJV.

Beyond the weekly Sabbath, God also instituted other rhythms of rest, including a “Sabbath year”, a year of no planting every seventh year (Leviticus 25:1-7). These rhythms reflect a deeper principle: we were not designed to run non-stop. Rest isn’t just a religious duty; it is a gift. God knew we needed it, and perhaps made it a command because, left to ourselves, we might never take it seriously. Jesus later emphasized this point, saying “… The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” Mark 2:27 NKJV.

As modern-day Christians, we’re no longer bound by Old Testament laws, but reflecting on Jesus’ words, if the Sabbath was made for us, then maybe we’re missing out when we ignore it.

Personally, I’ve come to see how vital regular rest is—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Taking one very long vacation every few years doesn’t truly reset you. We need rest built into our daily and weekly rhythms.

Yes, the Bible warns that “a little sleep, a little slumber” can lead to poverty (Proverbs 6:10–11), but it also says: “Do not overwork to be rich… When your eyes light on it, it disappears, for it suddenly sprouts wings, flying like an eagle” Proverbs 23:4–5.

Jesus modeled a life of balance. He never rushed, and he took regular time to retreat, pray, and get filled. If He, being fully God, needed rest, how much more do we?

My Struggle with Rest

As a mother to young children and a physician, I struggled to write this post—because I struggle to rest. I see the benefits. I believe in rest. And yet, I often find myself running on empty.

So, I’ve decided to be intentional. And I invite you to do the same.

Here are some ways we can start:

1. Keep a Personal Sabbath

Pick one day a week, or even half a day, where you step away from work and digital distractions. Tune out social media. Spend time with God and practice self-care. Start with 6–12 hours if 24 feels impossible. Be consistent.

2. Declutter Your Schedule

If you constantly feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, it’s time to reevaluate. Eliminate tasks that serve no real purpose. Cut out “busy work” and focus on what truly matters.

3. Pause Daily

Include moments of rest throughout your day. Even Jesus left the crowd to find quiet. Take a few minutes to breathe, pray, or reflect.

4. Take Breaks from Social Media and the News

In our hyper-connected world, even when the day ends, our minds don’t. Incessant scrolling can drain us mentally. Unplug regularly to give your brain real rest.

5. Build a Life-Giving Community

“…It is not good that man should be alone…” Genesis 2:18 NKJV. While usually quoted within the context of marriage, this truth applies beyond marriage. We’re made in the image of a relational God. Jesus had disciples. You need people too. Find or build a positive, supportive community.

6. Outsource or Ask for Help

If you can afford to, delegate tasks. And if you can’t, don’t be afraid to ask for help from those around you. You’re not meant to do life alone.

7. Incorporate Joy into Your Day

I’ve learned that incorporating moments of joy and activities you enjoy throughout the day helps keep your energy up. Don’t wait until all your tasks are finished to do something you love, you may run out of time or be too exhausted by then.

8. Tend to “Little Foxes” Early

Don’t procrastinate on small tasks that can snowball. A stitch in time truly saves nine. Deal with issues early, and keep your mental load lighter.

9. Prioritize Health

Regular check-ups help you catch problems before they escalate. Poor health can make rest feel impossible, even when you’re trying.

10. Eat Well & Move Your Body

Nutrition and physical activity aren’t just about appearance, they directly affect your energy and mental well-being. Fuel your body well, and it will serve you better.

11. Nurture Your Marriage

A healthy home life is important for all round wellness. Invest in it. Peace at home makes rest more restorative.

12. Practice Gratitude

Take moments, multiple times a day, to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Gratitude shifts your mindset and recharges your spirit.

13. Align Your Life with God’s Purpose

Running in the wrong direction is exhausting. Think of Abraham and Sarah trying to control events by having a baby through Hagar, or Lot’s move to Sodom. These actions were not taken with God’s backing and caused chaos and turmoil. Ensuring your plans are in line with God’s will brings peace.

In Closing…

Rest is a divine strategy for living well. When we honor our need for rest, we reflect the wisdom of our Creator and position ourselves to thrive.

So don’t wait for burnout. Start building rest into your life—one day, one hour, one moment at a time.