We can master the technique the first time. We complain about how busy we are, while smiling on the inside how important this makes us feel. Unfortunately, such a self-esteem quick fix comes at a price.
Many reasons exist for being busy. Maybe we never choose to stop. Maybe others impose it upon us. Nevertheless, do we associate busyness with acquiring significance or is it simply our routine?
If our answer is the former, we are wading in dangerous waters. To be bluntly concise, we either derive our identity from God or from another source such as this world. If it is from this world then we will be driven to acquire “more” whether it be position, people liking us, power, possessions, being busy, etc. We will serve (worship) whatever gives us meaning. Paul called this insatiable appetite for more – idolatry (Colossians 3:5; Ephesians 5:5).
If our answer is busyness is just our routine, scripture calls us to reconsider our lifestyle.
How important does God regard it for his people to rest? On three separate occasions within Exodus God insisted they rest (Exodus 20:8-11; 31:14-16; 35:2-3). God modeled resting. Taking a break causes us to rely upon God. It can remind us whose we are.
While observing the Sabbath is not a requirement for our relationship with God (Colossians 2:16), Jesus rested and he invited his disciples to rest (Mark 6:31). To take a break is godly.