On a recent episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective podcast, Jessica Van Roekel and I discussed the importance of faithfulness over resolutions. If you missed that episode, you can listen here [Faithfulness Over Resolutions: Embracing God’s Path for You Right Now – Episode 299]. As a healthcare professional, I’ve spent countless hours helping people reset their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. But over time, I’ve discovered a truth that runs deeper than any fitness goal or meal plan: the most transformational reset isn’t found in resolutions. It’s found in rest.

Why Rest Matters More Than Resolutions: Entering the New Year God’s Way

This revelation didn’t come overnight. Like many, I used to equate the New Year with a fresh start, a time to set lofty goals, and strive harder. I loved the feeling of writing down resolutions, envisioning the possibilities, and charging into January with full force. But by mid-February, the momentum would wane, and I was left frustrated, fatigued, and like a failure.

Last year, during the holidays, God impressed upon my heart to put a halt to striving for the next goal (or ten), and take time for an extended rest. While many of my friends were choosing their “Word of the Year” or working on their resolutions, I was exploring the importance of rest. It wasn’t until I leaned into Scripture and the wisdom of God’s design for rest that I began to experience true renewal. Resolutions focus on what we can do. Rest reminds us of what He has already done.

 

 

5 Reasons Why Rest Matters More than Resolutions

Let’s take a closer look at why rest matters more than resolutions as we enter this New Year.

1. God Modeled Rest for Us

In Genesis 2:2-3, we read, “By the seventh day, God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy.”

God didn’t need rest—He’s omnipotent and tireless. Yet, He chose to rest to set an example for us. Rest isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an act of worship. It’s a declaration that our value isn’t tied to how much we accomplish.

When we prioritize rest, we follow God’s blueprint for a healthy rhythm of work and restoration. It’s a rhythm that allows us to steward our energy and resources effectively.

2. Rest Renews Us Spiritually and Physically

As a healthcare professional, I often see the toll that chronic stress and overcommitment take on people’s bodies. Sleepless nights, high blood pressure, and emotional burnout are just a few of the symptoms. But God didn’t design us to operate on empty.

In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites us, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This isn’t just a promise for physical rest; it’s an invitation to find rest for our souls.

When we rest in Him, we realign our priorities, let go of burdens we were never meant to carry, and allow His strength to sustain us.

3. Resolutions Often Reflect Self-Reliance

There’s nothing wrong with setting goals—planning ahead is wise and biblical. But resolutions can quickly become a trap when they stem from a mindset of striving instead of surrender.

Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

Resolutions tend to focus on what we can achieve: lose 20 pounds, save more money, or read more books. But God calls us to a life led by His Spirit, not by self-reliance. Rest helps us shift our focus from striving to abiding.

4. True Rest Restores Our Trust in God

One of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn is that rest isn’t just about physical relaxation—it’s an act of trust.

When we take time to rest, we’re acknowledging that the world doesn’t depend on our efforts. It’s a way of saying, “Lord, I trust You to provide, protect, and guide, even when I pause.”

Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Stillness creates space for us to hear His voice, to sense His presence, and to be reminded of His faithfulness.

5. How to Enter the New Year God’s Way

So, how can we shift our focus from resolutions to rest as we enter the New Year? Here are three practical steps:

A. Start with Sabbath Rest

Set aside one day a week to truly rest. This doesn’t mean catching up on chores or mindlessly scrolling on your phone. Instead, spend time in worship, enjoy God’s creation, and nurture your relationships. Let Sabbath rest be a time to refuel and reconnect with Him.

B. Set Spirit-Led Goals

Before writing your New Year’s resolutions, spend time in prayer. Ask God to reveal His priorities for your life. Instead of setting 10 ambitious goals, consider focusing on one or two Spirit-led intentions.

For example, rather than resolving to lose weight, you might feel God prompting you to prioritize health so you can better serve your family.

C. Create a Daily Rest Habit

Rest doesn’t have to wait for weekends or vacations. Build moments of rest into your daily routine. Whether it’s a 10-minute prayer walk, meditating on Scripture, or simply sitting quietly with the Lord, these small practices can have a big impact.

 

 

Rest as a Resolution

As we step into this New Year, let’s choose a different path. Instead of chasing resolutions, let’s embrace rest—the kind of rest that renews our minds, restores our bodies, and realigns our hearts with God’s purpose.

Rest isn’t passive; it’s intentional. It’s a way of honoring God and inviting Him to work through us. When we prioritize rest, we position ourselves to receive His peace, strength, and direction for the year ahead.

So this year, let’s resolve to rest in Him. Because in the stillness, we find His presence. And in His presence, we find everything we need.

Join me in seeking His rest as we enter this New Year. If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs a reminder to slow down and find strength in God’s presence.

In Rest,
Dr. Michelle

 

Resolutions promise change, but rest delivers it. Prioritizing rest can reset your physical, mental, and spiritual health like nothing else. Read more for what I discovered as I leaned into scripture. Share on X Burned out from chasing resolutions? The real reset isn’t in doing more—it’s in resting better. Read more to learn why rest matters more than resolutions. Share on X

 

Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise that Your Pain is Not Wasted

Now Available!

 

We all endure trials, pain, and hardship in this life. Too often we believe these experiences disqualify us from being useful to God. But the truth is, your past pain and brokenness serve as preparation for what God wants to do in and through you – if you will surrender to and trust him.

Just as Jesus’s scars didn’t disappear after his resurrection, our emotional or physical scars tell our story and lend credence to our testimony of God’s love and power. If you are ready to turn your past pain into present comfort and future hope, let Dr. Bengtson be your compassionate guide.

Find out more and order here: Sacred Scars