The old saying, ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,’ still holds true today. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced us to new dimensions of productive work, revealing the dynamic nature of labor and challenging traditional work structures. It showed us that work does not have to be rigid or burdensome. If we embraced its advantages, we would have realized that life doesn’t have to be hard and that productivity is not about location but about intentionality. One can be just as productive at home as in a physical office.
However, rather than seeing it as an opportunity for balance, many have misused the flexibility of working from home. Instead of enjoying a healthier work-life rhythm, people often find themselves working around the clock. Many work late into the night, only to wake up early and dive straight back into tasks. They churn out work upon work with no real breaks to rest and replenish. Over time, they become mentally drained, struggling with burnout, and running out of fresh ideas.
Not only do they become mentally drained, but the relentless stress also begins to take a toll on their overall well-being. Their bodies grow weary, making them more susceptible to all kinds of illnesses. Their families suffer as well, with little to no time left for bonding and meaningful connection with the very people they are working so hard to provide for. Before long, those who should be grateful for their sacrifices begin to resent them for their constant absence. Tragically, some eventually lose their families altogether, while others find that their health has deteriorated so much that they cannot even enjoy the fruits of their labor.
Yet, Scripture tells us of the futility of such toil without balance: “Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 4:6). What good is wealth or achievement if, in the end, it costs a person their health, joy, or family? “There is a grievous evil that I have seen under the sun: riches were kept by their owner to his hurt” (Ecclesiastes 5:13).
Working tirelessly is not God’s best for us as believers. God is constantly calling us to rest in Him. Many forget that God is the true source of wisdom, creativity, and innovation. It is He who gives “witty inventions” (Proverbs 8:12). Without consciously taking time to rest in Him, it is only a matter of time before our well of ideas runs dry. What starts as diligence can quickly turn into an exhausting cycle of hard work with little fruit. Scripture warns us, “It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep” (Psalm 127:2).
As believers in the marketplace, we are called to operate differently. We are not to conform to worldly business ethics but to exemplify Christ in our dealings. In Scripture, believers who are employers of labor are likened to the “masters” spoken of in the Bible, and God is clear about how they ought to treat their employees. “Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven” (Colossians 4:1). This means that as Christian employers, we ought to lead with justice, fairness, and compassion,knowing that, we too, are accountable to God.
A godly employer does not exploit or overburden workers but creates an environment where work is fulfilling, and employees are treated with dignity. Hard work is necessary, but it must be balanced with rest, integrity, and the wisdom of God. Only then can we experience the fullness of His provision in our work.
Introducing Rest into Our Workspaces
One of the greatest blessings a person can have is a believing employer, someone who understands and applies God’s principles in the workplace. But even if we believe that there are few believing employers, that does not excuse us from doing things God’s way. As believers, we must rise to the occasion. More of us need to embrace roles in human resource management and leadership so that we can model a better way of working, one that balances productivity with rest and well-being.
Through our influence, we can introduce scriptural policies that foster both efficiency and renewal. When something works, even unbelievers are willing to adopt it, regardless of its origin. It is not about imposing religion but about demonstrating wisdom. Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). We can shine so brightly for God, living out our faith in such an unmistakable way that people recognize our godly principles without us being forceful or overbearing.
This aligns with what Peter said in 1 Peter 3:1-2: “Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.” While this passage speaks specifically to wives, the principle applies broadly, our conduct should be so Christlike that it influences even those who do not yet believe.
By being bold about our faith yet wise in our approach, we can transform workspaces into places that reflect God’s heart for both diligence and rest, proving that His ways lead to true success.
Establishing Restful and Considerate Workplace Policies
Create policies that promote a fair and balanced division of labor, ensuring that no single individual is overburdened or overworked. Encourage regular breaks throughout the workday, not just as part of leave entitlements, but as an essential practice for maintaining productivity and well-being.
When employees are on leave, truly respect their time off. Avoid burdening them with excessive calls, emails, or urgent tasks that disrupt their rest. Create policies that make employees feel appreciated and recognized. Where remote work is possible, allow it, ensuring that employees can balance work and personal life more effectively. As a believing employer, consider incorporating quarterly retreats, picnics, or team getaways to foster rest, reflection, and bonding among workers.Jesus set an example of how times of rest renew our strength, both individually and as a team, by often withdrawing with His disciples to rest (Mark 6:31).
Sabbath Room
Growing up, I remember the Doctors’ Lounge at my dad’s workplace, a cozy, well-decorated room with magazines, a TV, and comfy sofas, along with other details that have faded from memory. Even as a child, I could see their exhaustion, yet there was a quiet relief in their faces, grateful for a space where they could simply pause and breathe. I enjoyed going there because it was always so peaceful and quiet. It was like everyone just knew to keep things hush, as if there was an unspoken rule of silence in the room.
Like this Doctors’ Lounge, you too, can create a dedicated rest space in the workplace, let’s call it the Sabbath Room. This should be a quiet sanctuary where employees can retreat during work hours to sit in silence, read a book, meditate, or pray. Noise should be strictly prohibited to maintain an atmosphere of peace and reflection.
This space can also serve as a safe haven for brief naps, allowing employees to recharge and return to work refreshed. To enhance its comfort and appeal, the room could be furnished with cozy couches, a coffee table, fresh water, and a selection of books. Thoughtful decor can make the space feel both beautiful and sacred.
As Scripture says, “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength” (Isaiah 30:15). A well-designed Sabbath Room can serve as a reminder that rest is not a luxury but a principle that renews strength and fosters productivity.
The Power of Rest in the Workplace
In the long run, the benefits of rest far outweigh any perceived disadvantages. A well-rested worker is not only refreshed but also more productive, engaged, and ready to give their best. When employees are replenished, they approach their work with renewed energy, creativity, and a sense of purpose. Even more importantly, they experience joy, and joy in the workplace should never be underestimated.
Scripture reminds us that “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). A workplace filled with peace, joy, and satisfaction fosters an atmosphere where people thrive. Rest is not just about physical renewal; it strengthens relationships, builds unity, and enhances understanding among colleagues. It creates time for genuine care, allowing people to connect beyond work tasks and see one another as valuable individuals rather than just coworkers.
God established rest as a principle for both work and life when He said in Exodus 20:9-10: “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, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.”
Work is a gift, but it was never meant to consume us. God calls us to diligence, but also to wisdom and rest. So, whether you’re an employer, an employee, or someone aspiring to shape the workplace, take a moment to ask yourself: Am I working in a way that honors God and nurtures my well-being? If not, what small changes can you make today?
Because at the end of the day, what good is all our labor if we’re too exhausted to enjoy the life He has given us?
