4 Simple & Practical Ways to Practice Sabbath Rest

Last Updated on April 17, 2025 by Andrea

When to rest

I’m trying to dedicate more posts to thinking about rest.

For today I have an acronym to help you think about what Sabbath rest might look like. Please know that I’m not going to define “Sabbath” for you. For me, that’s Sunday. I understand all the reasons others celebrate Sabbath on Saturday. That distinction is less important to me than the fact that Christians get in the habit of taking a Sabbath day rest. It’s generally seen as the seventh day of the week – whenever you count that to be.

There are many practical ways to engage in spending time in sabbath practice. The ten commandments tell us to honor God with a day of rest. One way we can think of rest is with the acronym above.

Reflect

We begin by reflecting on what God did for us the previous week. How did God bless you? Sometimes we realize our blessings in retrospect, so the Sabbath is a good time to think about it. Take some time to talk with your family about how they were blessed in the previous week. The list may be longer than you thought!

Consider starting with a quiet moment of meditation or prayer, allowing yourself to truly connect with the past week’s experiences. Encourage each family member to share specific moments where they felt God’s presence or noticed His blessings. It could be as simple as a kind word from a friend, a moment of peace in a busy day, or an unexpected opportunity.

Reflecting together not only helps to recognize these blessings but also strengthens family bonds and fosters a sense of gratitude. You might even find it helpful to keep a journal dedicated to these reflections, where each Sabbath you jot down the blessings you’ve identified. Over time, this practice can reveal patterns of God’s faithfulness in your life, providing encouragement and inspiration. You’ll be amazed to see God’s goodness over time.

Additionally, you can create a ritual around this reflection time. Perhaps light a candle to signify the beginning of Sabbath rest, or play soft, contemplative music to set a peaceful atmosphere. The key is to make this a meaningful, intentional practice that enriches your spiritual journey and prepares your heart for the rest and enjoyment of the Sabbath day.

Enjoy

Next, enjoy the time. Go outside and play! Throw a frisbee or football, go for a swim or a walk on the beach (or in the woods). Take a hike. Color with sidewalk chalk. If it’s raining – dance! 💃🏻

Or, if you prefer to stay indoors, watch a movie or binge a show. Lose yourself in a good book filled with captivating stories and characters that transport you to different worlds. Paint a picture, unleashing your creativity on canvas, or do a puzzle that challenges your mind and provides a sense of accomplishment once completed. Plan a scavenger hunt, filling your home or yard with hidden treasures for an exciting adventure. Build a fort with blankets and pillows, creating a cozy hideaway where you can read a book or simply relax.

Baking a cake or preparing a special treat can also be a delightful activity. Enjoy the process of mixing ingredients, the aroma filling the kitchen, and the joy of sharing your creation with loved ones. Remember, the key is to do what brings you joy and refreshes your spirit. It does NOT mean more work from your to-do list that you didn’t get done during the week. This time is meant for relaxation and enjoyment, free from the pressures of daily tasks.

My favorite thing about Sabbath is the opportunity to be creative with our day. I can do things on this day that there isn’t time for on any other day of the week. This kind of rest is priceless to me!

Need more ideas? Click here for more ideas on fun activities to do with your kids.

Settle

Third, settle into the day. This happens when we take “enjoy” to the next level. We settle in and savor the moment. I understand some people will need to practice settling in a little at a time. That’s okay! I truly believe you’ll soon see the benefits and begin to carve out time to just BE for a while. The practice of settling allows us a break from the daily rhythms of work and stress. Settling gives us time to make room for the ruthless elimination of hurry.

Settling in means allowing yourself to be fully present, letting go of any lingering worries or stress. Take deep breaths, feel the rhythm of your surroundings, and embrace the tranquility that the Sabbath offers. It is an invitation to slow down, appreciate the simple joys, and truly connect with yourself and your loved ones.

For some people, settling in might require practice and patience. It’s about gradually easing into a state of relaxation where you can fully enjoy the present without the distractions of daily life. Start with small steps: perhaps begin with a few minutes of quiet reflection, or engage in a calming activity that helps you unwind. As you become more comfortable with this practice, you will begin to recognize its profound benefits. Your mind will feel more at peace, your body more rested, and your spirit more refreshed. I like to settle in by meditating on Scripture. The Psalms are my favorite place to go for this. I find a verse that speaks to me and I quietly repeat it over and over in my mind. Then I focus on it and what it means. I let it wash over me and fill me with the peace God intends.

Over time

Over time, this practice of settling in will become a cherished part of your routine, something you look forward to each week. You will find yourself naturally carving out time to just BE, appreciating the moment without feeling the need to constantly do or achieve. The Sabbath will transform into a sanctuary of rest and rejuvenation, a time to reconnect with your faith, your family, and yourself.

Trust

Finally, trust God with the next week. Trust that God has everything under control. You don’t need to solve the problems of the universe today. Trust God to provide time to get all the tasks done that need to be done. For today, trust that it will all work out. Trust that you don’t have to be in control of every little thing (that one gets me every time).

Release the burden of feeling like you have to be in control of every detail. This can be a transformative moment, allowing you to surrender your worries and anxieties. Trust that your needs will be met, and that you don’t have to manage every problem on your own.

In this sacred space, take comfort in the assurance that God’s timing and wisdom are perfect. It’s an invitation to experience the profound relief of letting go and resting in His care. Trust that you are not alone, and that each challenge will be met with grace and strength. This trust is a practice that can bring deep peace and rejuvenation, enriching your spiritual journey and renewing your spirit each week.

Practice

I hope this simple acronym helps you begin to define what the practice of Sabbath rest looks like for you and your family. Whether your full day of rest starts on a Friday night or a Sunday morning, I hope you take time to reflect, enjoy, settle, and trust God with your life. The most important thing is to appreciate what God has done for you. The Sabbath is a gift for you; a break from daily work and stress. It’s a time in the modern world to to set aside time to focus on God’s presence and find true rest. 💕

Please let me know how it goes!

Happy rest,

🌸 Andrea

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