When Rest Feels Lazy: The Battle Between Productivity and Peace
- Jason Henry-Ruhl
- May 9
- 3 min read
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
We live in a world that idolizes hustle.
Whether it’s the never-ending to-do list, the pressure to stay productive, or the belief that rest is earned—not given—we’re constantly told to do more, be more, produce more. And somewhere along the way, even in Christian communities, rest became synonymous with laziness.
But let me ask you something:
What if your exhaustion isn’t a sign of weakness but a signal from God? What if slowing down is holy?
The Lie That You’re Only Valuable When You’re Busy
From early on, many of us were taught that our value is in what we achieve.
Straight A’s? You’re smart.
Promotion at work? You’re successful.
Volunteering 5 days a week? You’re faithful.
These aren't bad things—but they easily become chains. We begin to believe our worth is attached to our output. And when we stop producing—when we rest—we feel guilty. Lazy. Less than.
Even in ministry, we confuse burnout with spiritual devotion. We serve so much we forget to sit at the feet of Jesus like Mary did (Luke 10:38–42). We wear exhaustion like a badge of honor. But that’s not what God called us to.
Jesus Took Naps (and Other Scandalous Truths About Rest)
Let’s not forget—Jesus napped in a storm (Mark 4:35–41). He intentionally withdrew to quiet places. He took time to pray, reflect, and be.
The Savior of the world—literally the most important human in history—rested.
Why do we think we’re above that?
If Jesus, who had every reason to rush, slowed down for rest, how much more should we?
God set a rhythm of rest in creation itself. Six days of work, one day to stop. Not because He was tired, but because we would be.
Mental Health Warning Signs That You’re Overcommitted
Sometimes the spirit is willing… but the nervous system is fried.
Here are a few signs you may need to step back:
You feel anxious when you're not busy
You're quick to anger or tears
You experience brain fog or forgetfulness
Your relationships feel shallow or strained
You’re numbing with food, entertainment, scrolling, or even spiritual activities
You feel disconnected from God—and from yourself
These are not failures of faith. They are invitations to pause.
Practical Sabbath Practices for Burned-Out Believers
Sabbath doesn’t have to be legalistic. It’s not about following rules—it’s about following rhythm.
Here are a few grace-filled ideas:
Unplug intentionally: Turn off notifications. Be unavailable on purpose.
Create margin: Leave room between tasks. Stop scheduling every moment.
Do something nourishing: Read. Walk. Breathe. Laugh. Be fully human.
Let something go: Not everything urgent is important. Delay what can wait.
Worship in silence: Listen for the still, small voice. It often speaks when the world goes quiet.
Start small. Maybe one hour a day. Then one evening a week. Then one full day. Your soul needs it more than you know.
Reflection Questions for Realignment
What would it look like for you to rest without guilt?
Where have you tied your identity to your productivity?
What small shift could you make this week toward rest?
How can you invite God into your exhaustion?
A Prayer for Rest That Restores
God, I’ve been trying to carry too much. I’ve confused movement with meaning, and busyness with worth. Teach me to rest—not just in my body, but in my spirit. Let me remember that I’m loved, not for what I do, but for who I am in You. Help me trust that the world won’t fall apart if I stop. But even if it does—You’re still holding it all together. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Final Thought:
Rest isn’t lazy. It’s warfare against a world that says you’re never enough.
When you rest, you declare that God is in control—and that’s more powerful than any to-do list.
Let Sabbath shape your soul. Let stillness rebuild your strength. Let silence deepen your connection with God.
You don’t have to hustle for your healing.
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