Grace Church Values, Technology The Power of Sabbath: Embracing Rest and Renewal

By Kaylah Bolender

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, the concept of taking a Sabbath day—a day dedicated to rest, reflection, and reconnecting with God—may seem outdated or impractical. Sabbath is not just a religious obligation; it's an opportunity to nourish our souls, strengthen our relationships, and deepen our connection with God. The deliberate decision to take a break and revitalize resonates deeply with the "Breathe" value at Grace. We refuse to be worn down to dust by the demands of life. Our desire is to experience ongoing renewal through Jesus, actively pursuing practices that contribute to our well-being, and engaging in spiritual disciplines such as solitude, silence, and observing Sabbath rest (Matthew 11:28-29).

 The No Screen Challenge: A Path to Spiritual Renewal

Imagine dedicating one day each week to disconnecting from screens and technology. A day where you intentionally set aside electronic distractions to focus on activities that foster spiritual growth, mindfulness, and connection with loved ones. This No Screen Day could involve:

• Spending quality time outdoors, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.

• Engaging in meaningful conversations with family and friends.

• Reading uplifting literature, meditating on the Bible, or participating in acts of service and kindness.

• Practicing prayer, meditation, or other spiritual disciplines.

Doing this challenge, even just monthly, you create space for reflection, gratitude, and a deeper connection with God, which can allow you to experience greater peace, joy, and fulfillment in your life.

Listening to God's Nudges: Embracing Presence Over Distraction

God may be gently nudging you to pay attention to the things that truly matter—the state of your heart, the quality of your relationships, and the beauty of the world around you. Instead of being consumed by the constant stimulation and distractions of screens, God invites you to cultivate mindfulness, presence, and gratitude in your daily life. By embracing God's nudges and prioritizing presence over distraction, you create space for spiritual growth, transformation, and alignment with God's will for your life.

Embracing Sabbath: A Journey of Rest, Renewal, and Relationship

Sabbath is not just about resting from work; it's about embracing an approach to life that honors God's design for rest, renewal, and relationship. By setting aside time each week to rest, reflect, and reconnect with God, you create a rhythm of life that fosters balance, harmony, and wholeness. Doing this lets you break free from the business, distractions, and pressures of daily life, focus on what truly matters, nurturing your soul and strengthening your relationship with God and experience His presence, guidance, peace, and renewal in new ways.


 

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