Last week I took a whole day for myself—not a small feat for any mom.
As someone who regularly encourages others to take Sabbath, I was surprised by how revolutionary this day felt. As a mom, rest usually comes in fits and spurts, especially when you are in a season with little ones.
I felt I could really release my shoulders and my busy thoughts, and rest my weary body. I felt I could pray with a clear head. I enjoyed it deeply. To be honest, I felt a little sad at how good it felt. It revealed that I had been running on empty for a long time and didn’t even realize it.
Women are conditioned to be givers from the moment we get that positive pregnancy test. Our body becomes their home. Our schedules bow to their needs for many years to come. That is natural and good.
But if we don’t stop and evaluate from time to time, we are likely to continue in a pattern of extreme giving that is unhealthy for ourselves and our families. In fact, I would say that it’s not biblical to withhold the rest your body and mind need (Hebrews 4:9-11).
Part of the challenge of embracing real rest is that we see it as ‘taking’. Out of the kindness of our hearts we’ve believed that sacrifice trumps all. It helps to recognize that making space for our needs is not taking from others but giving to ourselves. It is a gift, and we are worthy of it. It also gives our family members the opportunity to learn to be generous, to be flexible, and to see the needs of others.
If you are feeling weary for any reason, consider giving yourself the time to truly rest. You will be so grateful you did.
