Rest

Work and rest have been associated from the beginning. The creation story ends with God devoting the seventh day to rest. The omnipotent Creator didn't need the rest, but by resting He set the pattern for us. Many people have a hard time resting. Keep in mind, I'm not talking just about sleeping, though sleep is included in rest. Rest is conscious inactivity, not mere unconciousness. To be mentally alert while physically inactive allows us to rest at a level few reach. It creates a perfect environment for spiritual development as we can give undivided attention to God and what He is communicating to us.

"Sabbath" is often thought of rather formally, but I believe that shortchanges God's intention. Sabbath rest, whether it is a full day a week or an hour or two a day, reminds us that we did not make the world, that we are not in charge, and that everything will not grind to a halt if we reduce our activity level. Sabbath is not a reward for us getting all of our work done. Rather than chafing at self-imposed restrictions which reduce our productivity, we can relax in our awareness that we trust God, not ourselves, to meet our needs.

Because God initiated the concept of the Sabbath rest at the very beginning, I conclude that He designed it because He knew we would need it when He designed us. Jesus highlighted this distinction when He said that the Sabbath was made for our sake not the other way round. (Mark 2:27) God did not create humans to have someone to keep the Sabbath, rather he concecrated the Sabbath so humans would be able to get the rest they need to live healthy balanced lives. I also observe that the concept of Sabbath rest predates the law so even in the age of grace, neglect of the Sabbath principle will always have negative consequences.

Strictly speaking, rest is the cessation of labour. This rest need not demand absolute inactivity, though there is a place for that. We often speak of rest and relaxation together, suggesting that activities which are very different from the usual ones associated with the way we meet our physical needs is part of the “R and R” package. For our purposes we will include relaxing activity along with inactivity to be part of the “rest” which Christians should seek.

We've already noted that God concecrated the seventh day for rest after having spent six days in creative activity. (Genesis 2:2-3) but there are other passages which provide a biblical background for Sabbath rest. Sometimes it is viewed as a gift of God to be enjoyed: "See! The LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore on the sixth day he gives you bread for two days. Remain each of you in his place; let no one go out of his place on the seventh day.” So the people rested on the seventh day." (Exodus 16:29-30 ESV) Sometimes the concept of Sabbath is framed as a command to be kept: “Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, a holy convocation. You shall do no work. It is a Sabbath to the LORD in all your dwelling places. (Leviticus 23:3 ESV)

Then, in Hebrews 4, we learn of a perpetual rest: "So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his." (Hebrews 4:9-10 ESV)

Every day, our bodies remind us of our need for rest. In extreme cases, sleep will simply come upon us unbidden. We need to learn to rest before our mind and body simply shut down. Rest allows us (mind, soul, and body) to recuperate from the stress of work. Our need for rest reminds us that God designed us to rest. We are not productivity machines. I would also suggest that rest fulfills some aspect of God’s purpose for us.

Two potential pitfalls lie before us regarding rest. One is laziness. We can excuse sloth by calling it rest. For some, this may be a challenge. Most seem to be driven to the point where this will not be tempting in the smallest way. As we practice "Sabbath rest" we can become legalistic about “certain” activities. We need not dig deep trenches where a simple line in the sand will do.

I'm obviously speaking from the "driven, hyper-productive" side of the fence and when I note some practical tips to get started, you'll see that right away. These thoughts reflect some challenges I confront. Try taking some time each week to engage in activities which are not designed to make money or to put food on the table. Once you've managed that, try blocking off some time to “do nothing.” That's even harder. But remember the purpose of the exercise is not idleness. It is to allow your body soul and spirit to recover from the constant use and sometimes abuse to which we subject them.

At the spirit level, recognize that God is the source of the things you need to live. He may provide you with work for pay which will allow you to meet your physical needs, but it is His provision, nontheless. One last thought: Take a break from trying to be “in control” of your environment - especially the people in your environment - they need a break, too!

Ron Hughes
© August 2008