Encouragement for your Summer Sabbaths and Rhythms of Rest

It’s summertime, school’s out, Christmas is months away and Easter is behind us. It’s time to slow down! Or is it?

For some church leaders, summer provides blank space on your calendars and extra breathing room. But for others, we know that it’s just as go-go-go as ever.

Kicking back and relaxing during the summertime is ideal, yes! But is it practical, or even easy for everyone to do? We know the answer to that is no. And so, here is some encouragement and a few bite-sized ideas on how to rest, refresh and renew during the summer season ... no matter what your to do list or calendar looks like.

Be a Bookworm 

🫶 We encourage you to find joy, rest and delight in some summertime reading.

💡 A few ideas on what this might look like for you:

• Read a Christian, non-fiction book for encouragement. Here are of my personal favorites:
  • "That Sounds Fun" by Annie F. Downs
  • "Draw the Circle" by Mark Batterson
  • "You Are Free" by Rebekah Lyons
• Read a fun, fiction book. Sometimes an imaginary story can put your mind at ease as you escape into a fictional world. Find delight in a story that has absolutely nothing to do with your regular commitments!

Solo Time

🫶 We encourage you to spend time in solitude this summer. Be specific and intentional about making this happen. If needed, ask a trusted friend to hold you accountable to spending a bit of your summer in solitude.

💡 A few ideas on what this might look like for you:

• Solo time, more often than not, will require some advanced planning. The time won't magically appear on your calendar! Know that you are worth it and the rest and relaxation you will get from taking a break will be worthwhile.
• Start small. Even a short bit of solo time can help focus your heart and mind on the present moment. Focus on the things of the Lord and listen for what He has to say to you.

Opt for the Outdoors

🫶 We encourage you to take some time to be outside. Soak in the wonderful world that God has created! It doesn’t have to be a big trip or a far off location ... start small and see what you find.

💡 A few ideas on what this might look like for you:

• Take some time to step outdoors and into nature. Work from your church's front patio or take a call while on a bench outside your building.
• Find a nearby park, your backyard or your neighborhood's pool. Put your screens down and lift your eyes to the beautiful world around you.
• In between meetings or when you're at a stopping point on a project, step outside. Step into nature and breathe in some fresh air. Bonus points if it’s not downtown or close by heavy traffic so you can hear the sounds of nature!

Spend Time with Uplifters 

🫶 We encourage you to surround yourself with people who live out the fruits of the Spirit.

Who in your life is loving, joyful, full of peace, patient? Who is a faithful friend to you? Who is gentle and kind, full of goodness and self-control? 

💡 A few ideas on what this might look like for you:

• Allow yourself to be poured into. Church leader, we know you give and give and GIVE. It's perfectly fine ... and good! ... to receive, too.
• Be encouraged by your brothers and sisters in Christ. Spend time with those who lift your spirit and point you to Christ.

Move Your Body

🫶 We encourage you to move your body - whatever this might mean for you! Is there a way you can move your body this summer that's new to you?

💡 A few ideas on what this might look like for you:

• Go on a walk around your neighborhood or hike at a nearby park. 
• Try a new exercise class at your local gym.
• Pump up the tires on your bike and take a cruise around your neighborhood. 
• Cannonball into the pool and splash around with your kids or friends.

Pair Silence with Stillness ... and See How God Shows Up

🫶 We encourage you to create space for silence, and find stillness in your body and your mind. This doesn't come naturally to most people, we understand. But, though it seems counter-intuitive, this combination of rest might just be the most productive thing you do all summer long.

When was the last time you physically stood still? When’s the last time you were in total and complete silence? Whatever your circumstances may be, we encourage you to spend some time in silence and solitude, sitting with the Lord. 

💡 A few ideas on what this might look like for you:

• Even for a moment ... turn off the music, podcasts, TV, YouTube videos and even your phone. 
• Settle your body into the chair, couch, car ... wherever you are.
• Embrace the silence and resist the urge to fidget, move or multitask. 
• Ask God to surprise you. Thank God for His provisions for you. Praise God for His character. Rejoice in Him. Celebrate the fact that you have the opportunity to know God and to be known by Him.

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. T he   Lord   Almighty is with us; t he God of Jacob is our fortress."

Psalm 46:10-11