10/24/2024
As real estate investors, we are often taught to hustle, to grind, and to constantly push toward the next deal, the next opportunity, and the next goal. The nature of the industry—fluctuating markets, unpredictable transactions, and competitive pressures—demands a high level of engagement. But what if the key to long-term success and spiritual transformation wasn't in doing more, but in intentionally doing less? What if the spiritual discipline of Sabbath Rest could transform not only you as an individual but your business as a whole?
Sabbath rest, rooted in Biblical teaching, is the practice of setting aside intentional time to rest and cease from work, following the example of God who rested on the seventh day after creation (Genesis 2:2-3). More than just physical rest, Sabbath is about reconnecting with God, reflecting on His goodness, and resetting your life priorities.
For Christian real estate investors and entrepreneurs, Sabbath rest is a time to step away from the demands of the business to refocus on the deeper, eternal aspects of life. This regular rhythm can serve as a powerful spiritual discipline that shapes not only your personal character but also the culture and operation of your business.
In real estate, it can be tempting to rely solely on your own abilities, work ethic, and deal-making skills to drive success. Taking a day off to rest, especially when there are deals pending or market shifts occurring, requires a deep level of trust that God is sovereign over your business. By intentionally resting, you are acknowledging that God is your provider and that success is ultimately in His hands, not yours.
Transformation in Christlikeness: Practicing Sabbath teaches you to surrender control, depend on God, and trust His timing, which aligns your heart more closely with the humility and surrender Jesus modeled.
Business Impact: A business led by someone who trusts God is likely to operate with greater peace and steadiness. This trust reduces impulsive decision-making driven by anxiety or greed and fosters long-term, faith-driven success.
The pace of the real estate industry can be frantic, leaving little room for reflection. Taking time each week to slow down allows you to reflect on God’s work in your life and business. During Sabbath rest, you can assess how aligned your business practices are with your values and whether you are stewarding your resources and time well.
Transformation in Christlikeness: Reflection helps you become more self-aware of the ways you need to grow in patience, compassion, integrity, and service. It opens space for God to reveal areas of your life and business where you need to become more like Christ.
Business Impact: Regular reflection can improve your business strategies, helping you avoid repeating mistakes and enhancing your ability to course-correct with wisdom. It also ensures that your business aligns with your personal mission and values, creating a firm foundation for long-term success.
Burnout is a common issue in real estate. Constant stress and long hours can drain you physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By regularly observing Sabbath, you give yourself the chance to recharge both your body and your soul. When you return to work after your Sabbath rest, you are renewed and ready to tackle challenges with fresh energy and a clear mind.
Transformation in Christlikeness: Jesus regularly withdrew from the crowds to pray and rest (Luke 5:16). By following His example, you learn to prioritize spiritual health over worldly demands, becoming more attuned to God’s voice and more able to lead your business with grace and wisdom.
Business Impact: A rested leader is a better leader. When you are well-rested, you are more creative, patient, and decisive, which directly benefits your business. Employees, partners, and clients will notice the difference in how you lead, and this can foster a more positive, balanced, and productive work environment.
As a real estate investor who runs a business or leads a team, the way you live your life sets an example for those around you. When you practice Sabbath, you model a balanced, God-centered life for your employees, partners, and even clients. It shows that you value rest, health, and spiritual growth—not just profit and productivity.
Transformation in Christlikeness: Jesus was a servant-leader who taught by example. When you model rest and spiritual renewal, you are teaching others to value what God values and to find their identity and worth in Him rather than in their work.
Business Impact: A team that sees rest as a priority is likely to be healthier, happier, and more engaged. Encouraging your team to incorporate rest into their rhythms can lead to lower burnout rates, higher job satisfaction, and better overall performance.
Set a Specific Day: Choose a day each week to fully disconnect from work. This might be Saturday, Sunday, or any other day that works for your schedule. Commit to setting this time aside for rest and spiritual renewal.
Establish Clear Boundaries: During your Sabbath, turn off your phone, avoid checking emails, and put all work-related activities on hold. Use this time to focus on God, your family, and your own well-being.
Create a Restful Routine: Plan activities that rejuvenate your soul and body. This could include spending time in prayer, reading scripture, taking a walk in nature, or simply enjoying quiet moments of reflection.
Reflect on the Past Week: Use part of your Sabbath to review the previous week. What went well? Where did you fall short? Ask God for wisdom on how to improve and align your business with His will.
Incorporate Sabbath Into Your Business Culture: If you lead a team, consider encouraging your employees to practice Sabbath as well. Create a business culture that values rest, spiritual growth, and long-term sustainability over constant hustle.
For Christian real estate investors, the practice of Sabbath rest can be a transformative spiritual discipline. Not only does it lead to deeper trust in God and personal Christlikeness, but it also benefits your business by fostering a culture of peace, wisdom, and renewal. By regularly stepping away from the demands of the real estate market, you make space for God to work in you and through you—ultimately leading to a more prosperous, sustainable, and spiritually aligned business.
