The Importance of Breaks & Rest

Imagine Jesus teaching to large crowds, walking on busy streets—people squeezing their way through to get a glimpse of Him—healing dozens, withstanding the Pharisees’ judgment, casting out demons with power and ease…

Tiring, right?

Jesus had a lot to do on His workdays, but He knew very well that hard work required hard rest.

Even though He still had lots to do, Jesus surrendered His ministry to God daily. Jesus did what He could and then rested.

The story of Jesus calming the storm perfectly displays that. Just woken up by panicking disciples, Jesus calmed the storm and turned to them, saying, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:35-41).

I imagine Jesus went back to bed and fell asleep within minutes because He trusted there was nothing to be worried about. God was in control.

There are other examples in the Bible where Jesus suggested retreating, taking a break to eat, and getting rest.

Rest can be sleep at night, but it’s also the breaks in between tasks.

Did you know that God created our brain so that after 90 minutes of focused work, our energy burns out and we need to refuel?

Taking short breaks after one-and-a-half hours of work is not a bad idea. It would actually come close to modeling Jesus' way of resting.

Rest is not a waste of time. It’s a necessary part of your (work)day.

What would God think of your attempts to get sufficient rest during the day and night?

Blessings,
Jane