What does the Bible say about rest?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that rest is God’s gracious gift and command, calling his people to cease from ordinary labor, worship him, and trust his provision. Exodus 23:12 and Exodus 34:21 establish a weekly pattern of work followed by Sabbath rest, extending even to servants and animals. Leviticus 23 shows that Israel’s sacred festivals included solemn rest, holy assemblies, and abstaining from regular work, especially on the Day of Atonement. These commands taught that God’s people belong to him and depend on his mercy rather than their own striving. In Christ, believers find the deepest rest for their souls, while still honoring the Lord through worship, repentance, and joyful confidence in God’s finished work.