Scripture commands six days of work and one of rest. Most modern health advice about burnout is late to a very old conversation.
Work is good
Biblical principle- Genesis 2:15 places work before the fall.
- Ecclesiastes 3:13 speaks of enjoying the good of one's labour.
Rest is commanded
Biblical command- Exodus 20:9-10 — six days of labour, the seventh a sabbath of rest.
- Psalm 127:2 — anxious overwork is called vain, and sleep a gift.
- Mark 6:31 — Jesus tells his disciples to come apart and rest.
Where Christians differ
Interpretation- Christians hold different views on which day and on how the sabbath command applies now (Romans 14:5; Colossians 2:16).
- Nearly all agree that a rhythm of rest is God's design and is good for you.
What Scripture says
- Work and rest are both commanded, in a weekly rhythm.
What Scripture does NOT say
- Scripture does not define a modern working week, and it does not praise overwork.
Questions to reflect on
- When did I last take a full day without work?
Reflection journal
When did I last take a full day without work?
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