Practicing Sabbath

Practicing the Way: A Simple Sabbath Guide

This guide is designed to help you implement the Sabbath as a weekly rhythm of rest, renewal, and relationship with God. We hope this practical tool will help you and your family experience the gift of Sabbath in our modern world.

What is the Sabbath?

Sabbath (Hebrew: Shabbat) means 'to stop.' It’s a weekly 24-hour period where we cease work, embrace rest, practice delight, and center our lives on God. It is not legalism, it is liberation.

When Should I Practice It? Remember, start small

Choose a consistent 24-hour period (e.g., Friday dinner to Saturday dinner, or Sunday all day) that fits your rhythm. Consistency is more important than the day of the week.

Four Movements of Sabbath

Use these four anchors to build your Sabbath practice:

STOP – Lay down work, errands, emails, and chores.

REST – Sleep in, take naps, go on slow walks. Let your body and soul breathe.

DELIGHT – Feast, play, laugh, enjoy nature, create beauty.

WORSHIP – Read Scripture, pray, reflect, attend church, sing, or journal.

Sabbath Ideas for Individuals & Families

• Light a candle and say a blessing to start your Sabbath.

• Cook a favorite meal and linger long around the table.

• Take a walk with no destination, notice the beauty.

• Turn off devices for a portion of the day.

• Read aloud, nap, play board games, or enjoy music together.

• End your Sabbath with gratitude and prayer.

Reflective Questions

• What keeps you from truly resting?

• How might Sabbath shift your week, your family, or your relationship with God?

• What are small changes you could make this week to begin this practice?