Spiritual Disciplines for Parents: Worship, Generosity, and SabbathSample

DAY 5: REST… BUT DON’T QUIT

Yesterday, we talked about the importance of Sabbath and rest. One of the reasons we rest is so we won’t quit. When we’re rested, we’re less likely to burn out and stop short of our goal.

Spiritual disciplines are called disciplines for a reason; they take a lot of work! Even rest requires a certain level of intentionality and preparation… And that can feel like work!

Parenting isn’t for the faint of heart. Neither is following Jesus.

How do we raise our hands in worship when it feels like parts of our lives are falling apart?

How can we be generous and give 100% when we’re running on fumes?

How can we rest when the house is a mess and our calendar resembles that of a doctor’s office: no openings for the next three months?

The answer?

Day by day. Moment by moment. We surrender to stay in step with the Spirit.

And while we seek Jesus through these disciplines, we give ourselves grace, knowing we won’t get it right every time and we’ll never be perfect; and that’s okay! Because it’s in our weaknesses and shortcomings that God’s power is proven — to us and our kids (2 Corinthians 12:9).

These disciplines aren’t just ways for us to be a better example to our family. The goal isn’t even to become better Christians or better parents. These disciplines are a means to an end. They usher us into the presence of God and allow us to experience more of Him. And isn’t that what we really need? Not a perfect life, but an intimate relationship with a good God?

As the author of Hebrews says, “Let us keep on running the race marked out for us. Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the one who started this journey of faith. And He is the one who completes the journey of faith.” (Hebrews 12:1b-2)

Races are tough. Like parenting, they push us to our very limits (and then some). To do well in a race, we must practice. We’ve got to show up and do the (often unseen) work. We have to be disciplined.

Be encouraged today — no matter where you are in your spiritual journey. These disciplines lead us to Jesus, which ultimately leads us to the best version of ourselves.

“But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

Put it into practice. Set aside a few minutes to reflect on the three disciplines we’ve talked about. What are some ways you can surrender to Christ day by day through each discipline?