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The Power of a Holy Nap

For many of us, it’s never quite the right time to rest. Between work, home, and the endless to-do list, we’re like the Energizer Bunny, just going and going and going. Yes, I’m calling myself out, too. Sometimes I wonder how I’m even still functioning.

But here’s a little secret: if we don’t rest willingly, we’ll eventually be forced into it. And trust me, I’ve learned that lesson the hard way.

My body hit its limit a few weeks ago, much like an overheated car with steam billowing from the hood. It screamed, “Nope! You’re done!” So, I did the only thing I could, I “parked” myself right back in bed, curled up next to the beautiful green dress I thought I’d wear that morning to church.

When my daughter walked in and saw me still in bed; no church, no breakfast, no grocery shopping, nothing—she raised an eyebrow and said, “Mommy, you must be sick.” And honestly? She was right. I was beyond tired. And when exhaustion catches up with you, it’s never cute.

As I reflected on that day, Matthew 8 came to mind. Jesus had been healing and delivering one person after another. He was busy, probably busier than any of us! But by verse 23, He chose to leave the crowd (even though there were still needs left unmet). Then, in verse 24, we get this gem:

“Suddenly, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping” - Matthew 8:24 (NIV).

Jesus was sleeping, smack in the middle of a storm. Talk about mastering the holy nap!

Here’s what I learned from that:

First, we must know when to pull away from the “crowd.” People will always need something, but if we don’t rest, we’ll have nothing left to give. Rest is where our mind and body recharge.

Second, we need to be able to rest even during storms. Jesus didn’t panic. He napped. He knew who held the wind and the waves. And so do we.

Finally, there’s zero guilt in catching a nap. When the disciples woke Jesus, he didn’t jump up and apologize. He remained calm, in control, and unapologetically rested.

If Jesus, the world's Savior, needed rest, then who are we to fight it?

So today, I’m officially giving you permission to take a nap. Lay your burdens at Jesus’ feet and hit that pillow. Choose rest. The Lord’s got your back, and your sleep schedule (see Psalm 4:8).

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the sweet gift of rest. Thank you for teaching us the importance of pulling away and resting at Your feet. Help us to listen for Your voice in the stillness and renew our strength when it’s time to rise again and do what You’ve called us to do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Reflection

1. Are you ignoring the signs that your mind and body are giving you to slow down?

2. What “storms” in your life do you need to surrender to Jesus so you can truly rest?