September 6: Come Away and Rest a While
It’s a long weekend for a lot of people. Some will spend it at the lake with coolers. You’ve been working hard on your amends, and you’re tired. Is it okay to rest?
“And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.”
The disciples had just come back from a busy mission. So many people were coming and going that they didn’t even have time to eat. Jesus said, Come away by yourselves to a quiet place, and rest a while.
Jesus didn’t push them harder. He saw they were tired, and He told them to rest. That’s grace.
Step Nine is demanding. It takes emotional energy to face people. After a hard amends, you can feel drained for days. That’s normal. Discipline doesn’t mean never stopping. It means steady work with rest built in.
Rest also protects your sobriety. Being worn out is one of the most common reasons people slip. Hungry, angry, lonely and tired are old warning signs in recovery for good reason. When you’re exhausted, the old ways of coping start looking good again.
So rest this weekend. Real rest. Sleep in. Take a walk. Eat a good meal with people you like. Go to church. Do something fun that has nothing to do with recovery. Let your mind and body recover.
But rest wisely. Long weekends often come with drinking events. Lake trips. Barbecues. Parties. If you go, have a plan. Bring your own drinks. Know when you’ll leave. Have someone to call. If an event feels risky, it’s okay to skip it. Rest is supposed to restore you, not test you.
Jesus’ invitation is still open. Come away with Me. Rest a while. You don’t have to earn rest. It’s a gift.
One thing today
Plan one hour of real rest today, with no phone and no step work. Spend it outside, with a good book, or with someone who makes you laugh.
A prayer
Lord, I’m tired. Thank You for inviting me to rest. Help me rest well this weekend, and keep me sober and safe. Restore me for the work ahead. Amen.
If the weekend brings temptation, the alcohol cravings page has ideas that help.
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