How to Rest in God: Lessons from Jesus on Biblical Rest and Renewal

Stress is often worn like a badge of honor in today’s world. How often do we ask others, “How are you?” and the answer is something along the lines of, “I’m just so busy.” Much earlier in my career, I thought somehow my busy-ness related to godliness. The problem was, God never called me to work that hard. Women, especially, feel the pressure to juggle work, family, ministry, friendships, and endless obligations. But what if the answer to stress wasn’t found in doing more but in resting more by learning how to rest in God?

Rest isn’t just about getting enough sleep (although that’s important). True rest goes deeper. It’s about intentionally renewing your soul, stepping away from the pressures of life, and reconnecting with God. Jesus, the Son of God Himself, modeled this kind of rest. If He prioritized renewal, shouldn’t we?

In recognition of National Stress Awareness Day, we’ll look at how Jesus modeled biblical rest and renewal and what His example teaches about how to rest in God and find peace in stressful times.

Scripture Focus: How to Rest in God through His Word

Mark 6:31 (NIV) – “Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’”
Matthew 11:28-29 (NIV) – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Luke 5:16 (NIV) – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
Mark 4:38-39 (NIV) – “Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, ‘Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?’ He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.”

The Difference Between Sleep and Rest

Many people assume that as long as they’re getting enough sleep, they’re taking care of themselves. But rest is more than just physical sleep. It’s about renewing your heart, mind, and spirit.

Sleep is biological. It’s necessary for your body to repair itself, strengthen your immune system, and keep your brain functioning properly.
Rest is holistic. It includes mental, emotional, and spiritual renewal. Rest allows your soul to breathe, your mind to quiet, and your heart to reconnect with God.

Jesus modeled both. He physically slept, even in a storm, showing His complete trust in the Father. But He also withdrew for intentional rest: praying, retreating, and enjoying life in ways that refreshed His soul.

5 Ways Jesus Practiced Rest and How You Can Too

1. He Stepped Away from the Noise (Mental & Emotional Rest)

Jesus knew when to withdraw from the crowds to reconnect with the Father. Even in the middle of His ministry, He took intentional time away to rest. If you want to learn how to rest in God, start by creating space for stillness and quiet.

How You Can Apply This:

Set boundaries around your time. Say “no” to commitments that drain you.
Turn off notifications, step away from social media, and create space for silence.
Find a quiet place to retreat regularly, even if it’s just sitting in your car before heading inside.

2. He Prioritized Prayer as a Source of Renewal (Spiritual Rest)

Jesus didn’t just rest physically; He replenished His soul through prayer. His strength came from His communion with the Father. Prayer is one of the most powerful ways to rest in God and renew your spirit.

How You Can Apply This:

Begin and end your day in conversation with God.
Pray Scripture over your life to replace stress with His promises.
Keep a prayer journal to record God’s faithfulness and relieve mental clutter.

3. He Allowed Others to Serve Him (Emotional & Relational Rest)

Jesus, though all-powerful, accepted help from others. He let Mary wash His feet, accepted food from friends, and allowed His disciples to take part in His ministry. Learning how to rest in God includes letting others help carry your burdens instead of trying to do everything alone.

How You Can Apply This:

Stop believing the lie that you have to do everything yourself.
Let your spouse, children, or friends help you instead of trying to “power through.”
Delegate tasks and accept help when offered. It’s an act of humility, not weakness.

4. He Slept, even in the Storm (Physical Rest)

Jesus was able to sleep through a raging storm because He fully trusted the Father. Stress didn’t steal His sleep. When you learn how to rest in God, you can find peace even when life’s storms rage around you.

How You Can Apply This:

Create a peaceful nighttime routine. Dim the lights, play worship music, and avoid screens before bed.
Surrender worries to God before sleep. If you need to, write them down then leave them in His hands.
Establish a consistent bedtime, trusting that your body and soul need rest to function well.

5. He Delighted in Creation and Celebrated Life (Recreational Rest)

Jesus enjoyed meals with His disciples and friends, attended weddings, and spent time outdoors. He found joy in the simple things. Part of knowing how to rest in God is embracing moments of joy, beauty, and gratitude in His creation.

How You Can Apply This:

Spend time in nature to reflect on God’s beauty.
Laugh, celebrate, and enjoy fellowship. Stress decreases when joy increases.
Practice Sabbath rest. Set aside a day to recharge without guilt.

Encouragement for Your Journey: Rest for the Soul through Jesus’ Example

Friend, the world may tell you that your worth is in how much you accomplish, but God says your worth is in who you are in Him. Jesus Himself modeled rest because He knew that a weary soul is not an effective one. You don’t have to push through exhaustion to prove your value. Instead, you can follow Jesus’ example and step into the rest He offers. Then you’ll find you have more reserves caring for others and doing all God has called you to do.

Which area of self-care did Jesus model that you need to incorporate into your own life? How can you take a step toward rest this week? We’d love to hear in the comments below.

If this message encouraged you, take a moment to share it with a friend who needs to be reminded of the importance of rest. And if you’re struggling to release stress and embrace God’s peace, I invite you to sign up for my weekly email encouragement. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone!

Hope Prevails,
Dr. Michelle

Jesus showed us that rest isn’t laziness; it’s obedience. When you learn how to rest in God, you find peace that hustle can’t give. Share on X You don’t have to earn rest. Jesus modeled it. Step away from the noise, quiet your soul, and learn how to rest in God today. Share on X