Why Rest Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

Feature Photo Credit: Pixabay

I want to take a moment to share on a topic that I believe is incredibly important—rest. For many of us, the idea of rest feels like a luxury or, worse, a sign of laziness. But this mindset is not healthy, and it certainly isn’t sustainable. We need to shift our perspective and recognize that rest is not only okay—it’s necessary.

Let’s begin by asking: What does rest really mean?
Rest is a state of relaxation that involves stepping away from activity and allowing yourself to be refreshed. It’s about recovering your strength, both physically and mentally. It may look different for each of us—whether it’s taking a nap, enjoying a quiet moment, going for a walk, or simply doing something that brings peace.

Rest requires intention.
It means choosing to take breaks, to stop engaging in stressful or strenuous activities. For some, rest might come in the form of a vacation. For others, it may be a weekend habit or scheduled daily moments of quiet. Whatever form it takes, we need to be intentional about incorporating it into our lives.

And here’s the truth: many of us are not doing this enough.

There was a time when I began to feel the need for more rest in my own life. People around me started to notice as well. Some kindly suggested I should take time to relax. Yet, in the same breath, others would say, “You’ve got time—you can do this and that too.” The mixed messages were confusing.

As a result, I began to feel guilty whenever I took a break. I felt like I had something to prove. I thought I had to earn my rest by being constantly busy. There were even times I would continue working while on vacation, feeling pressure to remain productive. This mindset became harmful—not only to me but also to my family.

I share this because I know I’m not alone. Maybe you’ve experienced the same thing. Maybe you’ve felt that same guilt when you’ve tried to slow down. But I thank God for showing me the truth: rest is not just important—it’s essential for a healthy, balanced life.

When we choose to rest, we allow ourselves to recover, to breathe, to find strength again. We give ourselves space to think clearly and to connect more deeply—with God, with others, and with ourselves.

I’ve come to understand that busyness does not determine your worth. You don’t need to constantly do more to matter. You have nothing to prove. And I believe God invites us into rest—not to burden us, but to bless us. He doesn’t want us to feel guilty or anxious, but to walk in His peace.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Let’s begin to be purposeful about rest.
Recognize the need. Make it a priority. Don’t wait until you’re burned out or overwhelmed. Instead, choose rest as part of your rhythm—a gift from God and an act of faith.

Let me encourage you to make rest a priority.

Do you find it challenging to include intentional rest in your life? If so, you’re not alone. Maybe it’s time to start small. Could you take a 10-minute walk without your phone? Create a no-work zone on your weekends? Or spend a few quiet moments each day in prayer and meditation? I’d love to hear from you—how are you making space for rest in your life, and what changes are you considering? Let’s encourage one another to embrace this essential part of a healthy and faithful life.

There is always another way.
Keep pressing on and find it.
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