Many people find it difficult to stop and receive a Sabbath rest day. Even when they have a day off, it is often filled with tasks or errands. I am talking about a day when you simply stop and be.

We put out energy all week through work, caregiving, responsibilities, and everything else we carry. Once a week, it is okay to rest. It is okay to stop, slow down, and silence the noise. In that space, we can reflect and delight in the simple things of life.

I often do not use social media on my Sabbath. I like to disconnect and reconnect with the things that matter most: faith, family, friends, fun, food, and fitness—the things we are often too busy to enjoy.

A weekly Sabbath day of rest is a gift from God that we can choose to enjoy and receive. Too often, pride tells us that if we slow down, everything will fall apart. This was how I lived for much of my adult life, and for me, it was pride.

My challenge to all of us this week is to choose a day—Saturday, Sunday, or another day that fits your schedule—and simply be. No striving. Receive God’s love, grace, and mercy, and embrace your own limits.

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work…”

Exodus 20:8–10