Youth Sermon: Embrace Productive Rest

The Need for Rest

You know how we're always on the go, right? School, homework, sports, clubs, chores, friends, family... it's like we're always running a marathon. But have you ever noticed how Jesus, in the Bible, was always taking time to chill out?

Let's look at Mark 6:30-32. The disciples were super busy, just like us. They were teaching, healing, and doing all sorts of stuff. But Jesus was like, Guys, let's take a break. Let's go somewhere quiet and rest.

We're not designed to be on the go all the time. We need to rest. And not just sleep, but real rest.

How to Recharge

First, take short breaks throughout the day. You know how you feel after a long study session and your brain feels like mush? That's because our brains need breaks. So, every 90 minutes or so, take a 10-minute break. Listen to some music, take a walk, do something fun.

Second, get enough sleep. I know, I know, there's so much to do and so little time. But sleep is super important. It's like hitting the reset button on your brain. Aim for 7-9 hours a night.

Third, take a Sabbath. Now, I'm not talking about following a bunch of rules. Sabbath is about taking a day to chill out, enjoy God, and remember that we're not slaves to our schedules.

Try to incorporate these three rhythms into your life. Take short breaks, get enough sleep, and take a Sabbath.

Prayer

God, thanks for the reminder that we need to rest. Help us to follow Jesus' example and take time to recharge. Give us the wisdom to know when to work and when to rest. Amen.

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. How do you currently incorporate rest into your daily routine?

2. What challenges do you face when trying to get enough sleep each night?

3. How can you make Sabbath a regular part of your week?

4. How does rest help you to be more productive?

5. How does rest help you to connect with God?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Rest Relay
• Group Activity: Sleep Log
• Youth Challenge: Sabbath Practice