Counsels on Wellness

Counsel #22 — Always On Duty

Picture: Counsel #22 — Always On Duty CWe 129.1

With 24 hours in a day, many of us spend most of our time working, attending school, studying, or managing household responsibilities. For stay-at-home parents and others with demanding schedules, finding time to unwind during the day and getting to bed at a reasonable hour can feel nearly impossible. CWe 129.2

Sleep is often deprioritized amid daily tasks, but prioritizing rest is essential for avoiding burnout and its physical toll. While obligations like paying bills and caring for children remain, creating a daily schedule or to-do list can help focus on the most important tasks, freeing up evening time for an earlier bedtime. A packed schedule also increases chronic stress, activating the body’s “fight or flight” response and making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. By organizing your day effectively and making room for rest, you can reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and enhance your overall well-being.^[140] CWe 129.3

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28, 29 NIV CWe 129.4

“They have no time to pray, no time to watch, no time to search the Scriptures. They are altogether too busy to make the necessary preparation for the future life.” Ellen White in Our High Calling, p. 41 CWe 129.5

Reflect: How busy is your daily schedule? CWe 129.6