Politics rise and fall. The marketplace surges and stumbles. The stock market climbs and crashes. Relationships thrive and fracture. As leaders, we feel the pulse of these peaks and valleys every day. There’s a constant temptation to be engrossed with it all—and for good reasons. Our organizations need us to know what’s happening in the world.
But what about the leader’s heart and mind?
The Drift: Jonathan’s Story
Jonathan was a leader in his field, respected by his peers, a family man who cared deeply about his wife and children. But over time, something began to shift. He told himself he was simply “keeping up with the news.” Yet soon, world updates dominated dinner conversations, scrolled endlessly on his phone late into the night, and crowded out family prayers. Jonathancould tell you the latest developments in global politics, but he was drifting from his faith, his family, and the God who called him.
Jonathan’s story is not unique. Leaders often pay close attention to the kingdoms of this world but forget the Kingdom that endures forever. Jesus reminded us: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).
The Gift of Sabbath
The Bible offers a rhythm of renewal: Sabbath. God sanctifiedthe seventh day—not for His benefit but for ours. Genesis 2:3 says, “So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.”
Sabbath is not merely a “day off” or a “media fast.” It’s a spiritual reattachment to the God who created all things and holds eternity in His hands. As Abraham Joshua Heschel wrote, “The Sabbath is an island of time.” In the turbulence of markets, politics, and shifting relationships, Sabbath reminds us of what really matters: God’s presence, God’s purposes, and God’s people.
Jesus himself practiced this rhythm. Luke 5:16 tells us: “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” If the Son of God needed it, how much more do we?
Three Steps Toward True Sabbath
A Word to Leaders
As leaders, our organizations need us sharp, aware, and prepared. But they also need us centered, grounded, and anchored in the Kingdom of God. Sabbath is God’s gift to protect us from losing ourselves in the endless noise of the world.
Remember: Sabbath isn’t about escaping the world—it’s about re-entering it with renewed clarity, courage, and compassion. Leaders who remember which Kingdom they serve first will not only lead with wisdom but also with confidence knowing from where their help comes from.
