The Captain's Log: Embracing Sabbath |
As the demands of life increase, finding time to rest can seem nearly impossible, especially for those of us in recovery. We often measure our worth by our productivity, leading us to believe that rest is a luxury we must earn. But what if rest is not just something we do when all the work is done, but a crucial, God-given part of our journey toward healing and wholeness? The True Meaning of Sabbath The concept of “Sabbath” originates from the biblical creation story, where God rested on the seventh day after six days of work, setting a precedent for the rhythm of work and rest. The Sabbath was intended as a gift, a day set apart for rest, reflection, and connection with God. Unfortunately, over time, the concept of Sabbath has been co-opted in some circles to imply that rest must be earned—that we must complete our tasks, prove our worth, and only then are we allowed to rest. This is a distortion of God’s original plan. The Sabbath was not intended as a reward for productivity but as a reminder that our value is not tied to our work. Rest is an integral part of the divine rhythm of life, woven into the very fabric of creation. Why Rest is Crucial in Recovery In the context of recovery, rest is not just beneficial; it’s essential. Recovery is about more than just breaking free from addiction or unhealthy coping mechanisms—it’s about rebuilding a life that is whole and grounded in truth. Rest allows us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with who we are and with God, providing the clarity and strength needed to continue our journey. Rest gives our minds and bodies the opportunity to heal. It’s in these moments of intentional pause that we can assess our progress, process our emotions, and gain the perspective necessary to make wise decisions. Without rest, we risk burnout, relapse, and the inability to see the bigger picture of our recovery journey. What Rest Can Look Like |
- Quiet Reflection: Setting aside time for prayer, meditation, or journaling can help you reconnect with yourself and God, providing a space for deep reflection and spiritual renewal.
- Physical Movement: Gentle activities like walking, yoga, or stretching can help release physical tension and refresh your body and mind.
- Creative Expression: Engaging in creative activities like drawing, painting, or writing can be a restful way to express emotions and thoughts that might otherwise go unspoken.
- Nature Immersion: Spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, sitting by a river, or simply breathing in fresh air, can be incredibly restorative.
- Beholding Beauty: As Curt Thompson suggests in The Soul of Desire, taking time to appreciate beauty—in art, nature, or simple daily moments—can provide a deep sense of rest and wonder.
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Why Rest is Hard For many of us, rest is difficult because we’ve been conditioned to see it as something that must be earned. This belief is often rooted in our upbringing. Perhaps you were taught that rest is synonymous with laziness, or that only after hard work can you “deserve” a break. These ideas can make it challenging to view rest as the vital, God-given gift it truly is. But in recovery, we must challenge this narrative. Rest is not a reward for hard work; it’s a necessity for our health, our spiritual life, and our recovery. Embracing rest means acknowledging that we are not defined by our productivity, but by our inherent worth as children of God. As you reflect on your relationship with rest, consider these questions. They can be used for journaling, discussing in a Samson meeting, or exploring with your Silas: |
- What messages did you receive about rest growing up? Was it seen as laziness, or was it valued in your household?
- How do these early beliefs about rest influence your current attitude toward it?
- What fears or beliefs might be preventing you from embracing rest as part of your recovery?
- How can you reframe rest as a necessary part of your spiritual and emotional health?
- What activities help you feel most rested and rejuvenated? How can you incorporate more of these into your life?
- In what ways can you honor the concept of Sabbath in your weekly routine, making space for rest and connection with God?
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Remember, rest is not something you must earn—it’s a gift from God, meant to nourish and sustain you on your journey. By embracing rest in its truest sense, you allow yourself the space to heal, grow, and thrive in your recovery, living out the fullness of the life God intends for you. Fair winds and following seas, brothers. |
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