What does the Bible say about rest and leisure?
Quick answer
God himself rested on the seventh day. Built into creation is a rhythm of work and rest. Faithful leisure — Sabbath, sleep, play, friendship, worship — is not laziness but obedience.
"Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while" (Mark 6:31). Jesus prioritized rest for his exhausted disciples.
Sabbath rest is theological: God runs the universe; you don’t. Stop, eat, sleep, worship. The world will keep turning.
Leisure isn’t escape from God; it is enjoyment of him through his good gifts — food, family, beauty, friendship, even sport. The Christian life has play in it.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.