Our Need For Rest

Our Need for Rest

On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work.

Genesis 2:2

PHYSICALLY, MENTALLY, and emotionally, humans are designed with the need for rhythm between work and play. The old saying “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” reflects a fundamental human need for recreation or relaxation. This need is reflected in the second chapter of the Bible, where we learn that after Creation was completed, the Lord rested from his work. As people made in God’s image, is it surprising that we also have this need?

Look at your own and your spouse’s behavior, and you will see that at least some of your actions are motivated by this desire for recreation and relaxation. The methods of meeting this need are colored by our personality and preferences.

Why does Eric come home from work, click on the TV, and enjoy his favorite drink before engaging in conversation with his wife? Because he wants to relax before he makes the effort to relate to her. Or why does Ashley stop at the gym before she comes home and interacts with her family? Consciously or unconsciously, she is seeking to meet her need for relaxation. If we understand our spouse’s need, we can try to find a way to get the love we need and still allow our partner the freedom to meet his or her own needs. We, too, must find our own way of relaxing—whether it’s reading, exercising, watching TV, or pursuing a hobby—or we will lose our emotional stability. The wise spouse encourages recreation and relaxation.

Father, thank you for the need to rest and relax. Too often, I view this as a waste of time, but I know it’s an important need that you have given us. Help me not to criticize my spouse for relaxing, but to view it as a positive thing for refreshment.

Needs