Finding Sabbath Rest During the Summer Beth Holmes

Summer break is half over. We’ve travelled, worked at VBS, gone to drama camp, celebrated birthdays and Father’s Day. And you know what? I don’t feel like I’ve had a vacation at all.

One thing I am trying to learn in this season of life as a 40-something wife and mom is how to find Sabbath rest within our busy schedule. I wouldn’t trade my life for anyone else’s. I love my family, I love our church and our friends, and I see God’s hand and blessings all over my life. But what’s a mama to do in the middle of summer (or any other season) when she just gets tired?

1) Rest in God.

Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.” Sometimes, finding rest is just as simple as sitting still. Finding ten minutes for a cup of coffee on my patio, watching the birds and butterflies enjoy my flowers, or finding a quiet corner of the house to read my Bible and pray can do wonders to help me move forward and finish my day strong.

2) Hold plans loosely.

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps” (Prov. 16:9). I would be willing to wager that your calendar is just as packed as mine. We are busy with careers, church, families, friends, and on and on. Summer is no less busy than the school year. I am a type A planner, but whatever your style, I’m sure you have some idea of how you expect your summer to go. When God’s plans are different than ours, we need to be able to adjust and follow His will for our days.

3) Maintain regular patterns of Bible study, prayer, and corporate worship.

In Hebrews 10:24-25, we read, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” It is so tempting to let our spiritual disciplines and our church attendance slide off during the summer. The days are longer, the weather is nicer, and we just need a break, right? But in His Word, God warns us not to fall into this lie. Why do we meet together? For encouragement! Your local church needs you, and you need them, especially when you think you are too busy.

4) Enjoy this season for what it is.

Psalm 34:8 says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” Seasons of the year come and go, and so do seasons in life. Having kids at home is busy, messy, and a bit crazy, but as someone has said, “The days are long, but the years are short.” Before we know it, the house will be empty once again, and we’ll have all the time in the world. Maybe you are in a season of waiting on the Lord. He will answer. Perhaps you are in a season of grief. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted. Wherever you find yourself, God is there. Time passes, and seasons change. Know the goodness of the Lord where you are today.

I love summer, and I love summer break. I am committing to being as intentional as possible to make the most of it, while finding rest in the midst of it. How about you? How are you cultivating times of rest in your season of life?

 

 

About the Author:

Beth Holmes is a wife, mom, music teacher, and writer/editor who enjoys gardening, reading and cooking … when she can find the time! She lives in Owensboro, Kentucky with her husband, son, and miniature dachshund named Robin.