For those serving in ministry—whether as church staff or faithful volunteers—it can feel almost impossible to find the freedom to rest. The needs of the congregation, the weight of responsibilities, and even the pressure we put on ourselves can make rest seem out of reach.
Yet God did not design us to run endlessly on empty. From the very beginning, He modeled rest and commanded His people to follow His example. Rest isn’t just a personal luxury—it’s an act of obedience and an opportunity to spend time with Him.
This article will explore what the Bible says about rest—spiritually, emotionally, and physically—and why it matters for those in ministry. And at the end, you’ll find a free 31-day printable Bible reading plan on rest to encourage and equip you in your walk with God.
God’s Example of Rest
The world tells us that rest is found on a vacation, a spa day, or a long weekend off. While those can provide temporary relief, they don’t necessarily lead us to biblical rest.
In Genesis 2:2 we read:
“On the seventh day God finished his work which he had done; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done.”
God wasn’t tired or drained. He is all-powerful (Jeremiah 32:17; Isaiah 55:10–11). Instead, He rested to show us that rest is holy, purposeful, and essential.
For those in church work, it’s easy to equate constant busyness with faithfulness. But even God Himself paused. The Sabbath is a reminder that ministry is never sustained by our strength alone—it is sustained by Him.
What Is Biblical Rest?
True rest doesn’t come from simply stepping away from tasks or responsibilities. It comes from resting in God Himself. Psalm 62:1 says:
“My soul rests in God alone. My salvation is from him.”
In ministry, it’s tempting to rely on our own abilities. But rest reminds us that we are not the ones holding everything together—God is. When we pause, we create space to recognize His work, not just our own efforts.
Rest is a spiritual discipline that helps us release control, renew our strength, and return to our calling refreshed.
Why God Commands Rest
Exodus 20:8–10 records the fourth commandment:
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. You shall labour six days, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. You shall not do any work in it, you, nor your son, nor your daughter, your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your livestock, nor your stranger who is within your gates.”
For ministry workers and volunteers, it’s easy to push this aside as impractical. Yet God commanded rest even when life was far harder for His people.
They didn’t have modern conveniences—no appliances, refrigeration, or technology to make work lighter. Still, God required them to stop.
Why? Because He wanted their trust, worship, and hearts turned toward Him.
The same is true today. Rest is not wasted time; it’s time set apart to worship, reflect, and prepare for the work ahead.
Rest Through the Peace of Christ
Church leaders and volunteers often carry unseen burdens—conflict, discouragement, or weariness from serving others. Jesus offers something the world never can:
John 14:27 says,
“Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.”
His peace is not dependent on circumstances. You may not always get a long break or a chance to step away from obligations, but Christ’s peace can meet you in the middle of busy seasons.
Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us to bring everything before Him in prayer. When we do, His peace guards our hearts and minds, even in the middle of ministry challenges.
Making Rest a Ministry Rhythm
You may be asking, “How can I realistically make rest a habit when there’s so much to do?” The answer is to start small. Here are a few simple ways to begin:
- Daily quiet time – Begin or end your day with Scripture and prayer. This centers your heart on God before the demands of ministry.
- Weekly Sabbath or mini-Sabbath – Whether it’s an afternoon walk, journaling, or time in worship, choose something that renews you spiritually and physically.
- Release perfectionism – Rest isn’t about doing Sabbath “the right way.” It’s about obedience and dependence on God’s grace.
- Listen to God’s leading – Rest may look different for each person. Be sensitive to how God is guiding you to renew your strength in Him.
Rest is not an inconvenience to ministry—it’s what sustains it.
Free 30-Day Bible Reading Plan on Rest
To help you or your ministry team lean into God’s design for rest, we’ve created a free printable 31-day Bible reading plan.
This plan offers daily Scriptures that focus on finding rest in God—perfect for personal devotion or even for use with a ministry team devotional time.
👉 Download the free version on Gumroad.
👉 An expanded version (with journaling pages, a prayer log, and notes section) is also available in our Etsy store.
Bible Study and Reflection Questions on Rest
- In Genesis 2:2, God rested after creation. If He didn’t need rest, why do you think He modeled it for us? How does this shape your own view of rest?
- The fourth commandment in Exodus 20:8–10 calls us to “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” What does keeping the Sabbath look like in your current season of life?
- Jesus promises in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you.” How is the peace of Christ different from the rest the world offers through vacations, entertainment, or leisure?
- What areas of your life do you need God’s peace and rest? Write a short prayer asking Him to help you surrender those areas to Him today.
Rest is not just for the weary—it’s part of God’s design for every believer, including those who serve the church faithfully. Take hold of His invitation to step back, surrender, and be renewed by His presence.
Download the reading plan today, and begin to build rhythms of rest that will sustain you in ministry and beyond.
If you liked what the Bible says about rest, you may also like Prayer Points for the Church and Thanksgiving Prayers, Psalms, and Poems.
