“You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working. This gives your ox and your donkey a chance to rest.” Exodus 23:12 

There’s a saying that goes, “When Mom is happy, everyone is happy.” Whether or not that is true in your home, the sentiment carries weight: You help to set the tone. Your attitude and actions are seen and felt by your children. Your enthusiasm, work ethic, devotion, and of course, love, are absorbed and processed more thoroughly than you often realize. Whether or not your children choose to do what you do, they experience what you do, and it helps shape the course of their lives. Fortunately, God is with you every step of the way, offering his wisdom and discernment. He offers us forgiveness because he knows we will not be perfect parents. He gives us love because he knows that’s what we all need most. 

When you build rest into the rhythm of your life, it affects your children as well. They see you choose to be still, which gives them permission to do the same. When you invite them to rest and recreate, you are placing value on something that God values too. It may not look like a traditional Sabbath Sunday. It may be another night of the week, or Saturdays, or an hour here and there. Saying yes to rest is a gift both to yourself and to your children. God designed you to slow down regularly, so he celebrates those times you choose to prioritize a peaceful practice. 

It may seem impossible to find times and ways to rest, but the Lord will help you set a rhythm. 

 

This month, we are sharing devotions – like this one – from the Daily Devotional Bible for Moms! Pick up your copy today at dayspring.com.