Restored: Week 1 – God Rested (May 1–7)

Welcome to Week 1 of Restored: 31 Days of Sabbath and Soul Rest. This week, we begin by remembering that rest isn’t a reward we earn—it’s a rhythm God built into creation.

Each day includes a verse, reflection, prayer, and rest prompt. You can read through all seven at once or come back each day for fresh encouragement.

May 1 – In the Beginning, God Rested

Scripture: Genesis 2:2-3God, who is all-powerful and never weary, chose to rest. Not because He needed it, but to show us that rest is holy. It’s built into our design. When we embrace that rhythm, we live more fully into the life He’s created for us.

Rest Prompt: Sit quietly for 5 minutes today. Let your thoughts settle and welcome His peace.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for setting the example of rest. Help me receive rest as a gift, not a burden.

May 2 – A Holy Pause

Scripture: Exodus 20:8-10Sabbath is the only spiritual discipline God included in the Ten Commandments. He calls us to stop, remember, and delight in Him. When we treat rest as sacred, it transforms how we live.

Rest Prompt: Look at your week. Choose a Sabbath day and block off time to truly rest.

Prayer: God, help me protect Sabbath in my life. Let it become a place where I meet You.

May 3 – Stop and See

Scripture: Psalm 19:1-2The heavens are declaring God’s glory, all the time. The question is: are we slowing down enough to hear it? Sabbath invites us to look up, listen, and wonder.

Rest Prompt: Step outside for 10 minutes today. What beauty is God showing you?Prayer: Creator God, awaken my senses to Your glory. Help me notice You in the everyday.

May 4 – Rest Is Resistance

Scripture: Mark 2:27Jesus reminds us that Sabbath was made for us. In a world of hustle and performance, choosing rest is an act of resistance. It’s how we say: I trust God more than my to-do list.

Rest Prompt: Turn off your phone for one hour. Be fully present.

Prayer: Jesus, quiet the noise around me and within me. Let me find rest in Your presence.

May 5 – Trust and Stop Gathering

Scripture: Exodus 16:22-30God provided manna daily—but told Israel to rest on the seventh day. Some kept gathering anyway. Trusting God means believing He’ll provide what we need, even when we stop working.

Rest Prompt: Let go of one task or plan today. Let it wait.

Prayer: Lord, I want to trust You more than my own effort. Help me release control.

May 6 – The Gift of Sleep

Scripture: Psalm 127:2"He grants sleep to those He loves." Sleep isn’t weakness—it’s worship. God made our bodies to need rest. When we receive that gift, we’re living in His design.

Rest Prompt: Go to bed early tonight. Let your sleep be sacred.

Prayer: Thank You for caring about my physical needs. Help me rest deeply, knowing You are near.

May 7 – Begin Again

Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-23God’s mercies are new every morning. Sabbath is not about perfection—it’s about returning. Even if your week was hectic, today is a new chance to step back into God’s rhythm.

Rest Prompt: Reflect on this week. What helped you rest? What would you change?Prayer: God of fresh starts, thank You for walking with me this week. Restore my heart again.