By: C.J. Lloyd January 31, 2025

Vacations are often seen as necessary escapes from the demands of daily life. But for Christians, the question arises: Are vacations biblical? While the Bible does not explicitly mention vacations as we understand them today, its teachings on rest, renewal, and stewardship provide a framework for understanding whether taking time off aligns with God’s design.

1. The Principle of Rest in Scripture

Rest is a foundational principle in the Bible, established by God Himself during creation. After six days of work, God rested on the seventh day, not because He was tired, but to set an example for humanity.

• Genesis 2:2-3: “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy.”

This rhythm of work and rest was later codified in the Ten Commandments through the institution of the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-10). The Sabbath was a time for God’s people to cease labor, reflect on His goodness, and be refreshed. When used for rest and renewal, vacations can mirror this biblical principle by providing a break from the demands of daily life and an opportunity to reconnect with God.

2. Jesus Modeled Rest and Retreat

Throughout His ministry, Jesus demonstrated the importance of withdrawing from busyness to rest and pray. Even amid pressing needs, He prioritized time away to renew His strength and focus on His mission.

• Mark 6:31: “Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’”

• Luke 5:16: “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”

While Jesus’ retreats were not vacations in the modern sense, they highlight the value of intentional rest. Vacations can serve as a way to step back from the busyness of life, reflect on God’s blessings, and recharge physically and spiritually.

3. Celebrating God’s Blessings

The Bible encourages celebrating God’s goodness and provision. In the Old Testament, God commanded His people to observe festivals and feasts, often including time off from work to rejoice and remember His faithfulness.

• Deuteronomy 16:15: “For seven days celebrate the festival to the Lord your God at the place the Lord will choose. For the Lord your God will bless you in all your harvest and all the work of your hands, and your joy will be complete.”

Vacations can be a modern expression of this principle. They provide an opportunity to enjoy God’s creation, reflect on His provision, and deepen relationships with family and friends. Whether it’s a trip to the mountains, a day at the beach, or a quiet staycation, time spent in gratitude and celebration aligns with biblical values.

4. Avoiding Excess and Idolatry

While vacations can honor God, they must be approached with balance. Scripture warns against idleness, selfishness, and pursuing pleasure as an ultimate goal.

• Ecclesiastes 2:10-11: Solomon reflects on the emptiness of pursuing pleasure for its own sake, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from God.

• 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

Vacations should not lead to neglect of responsibilities, overindulgence, or financial strain. Instead, they should glorify God by fostering rest, gratitude, and meaningful connections.

5. Stewardship and Intentionality

As stewards of God’s resources, Christians must use their time, money, and energy wisely. Vacations should align with this principle.

• Proverbs 21:5: “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”

Thoughtful planning ensures that vacations are financially responsible and spiritually enriching. By prioritizing experiences that promote rest and reflection, believers can honor God with their time away.

6. Rest Reflects Trust in God

Taking time to rest, including vacations, can be an act of faith. It acknowledges that God is ultimately in control and that our worth is not solely tied to productivity.

• Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.”

Resting reminds us to rely on God’s provision and to find our identity in Him rather than in our work.

The rest, renewal, celebration, and stewardship principles suggest that time off can align with God’s design. Vacations that honor God by fostering rest, gratitude, and connection with others reflect His desire for human flourishing.

As you plan your next getaway, consider how it can be an opportunity to glorify God, deepen relationships, and reflect on His goodness. Whether it’s a simple retreat or a grand adventure, a vacation rooted in biblical principles can refresh your body, mind, and spirit.