Faith at Work: A Plan for Business LeadersSample

The 7th Day

“So the creation of the heavens and the earth and everything in them was completed. On the seventh day, God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation” (Genesis 2:1-3, NLT).

Isn’t the Creation of the Earth incredible?

As leaders—whether in business, ministry, or other organizations—it often feels like our “To-Do” list has no limits, no end, no final completion. We are dreamers, creators, and highly focused, constantly thinking about the next step, the next goal. There is always something more that can be done.

In past generations, the office, worksite, or place of work was left behind when the workday ended. The landline phone rarely rang outside of business hours, and our homes were reserved for family and friends. But today, with mobile devices and instant communication, we are constantly connected to work. Emails, messages, and notifications pull us back in, often beyond our working hours.

It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of a new message, a last-minute contract, or a challenge that needs solving. These things can keep us from the rest and recharge we need, even during times meant for family, leisure, or reflection.

This brings us to the example set by the Creator. In the very beginning, God showed us the importance of rest. After six days of creation, He rested and declared the Seventh Day Holy. God, who does not grow weary, modeled for us that rest is a necessary part of life. It’s not sustainable to work endlessly. We need time to recharge, refocus, and reconnect—with ourselves, with our loved ones, and with God. This rest opens the door to creativity, new ideas, and renewed energy.

Jesus clarifies this in Mark 2:27, reminding us that the Sabbath isn’t a restrictive rule meant to control us. Rather, it was made to serve our needs. God knows that we need regular times to reset and rest in the knowledge that He holds everything in His Hands. Our worries, our work, our projects, and the people we lead—God is in control of it all.

“Then Jesus said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath’” (Mark 2:27, NLT).

So, be encouraged to take a 24-hour break each week. Enjoy the time God has set aside for you. Rest, recharge, and see what God has in store as you trust Him with your time.