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Tim Maas
Supporter
If the question is speaking of "labors" in the sense of services offered to God on behalf of His kingdom, I would say that lasting rest would or should only come when earthly life ends. That is not to say that every thought and action on a 24/7 basis should be directly focused on God, or that there is not a biological need for sleep, but, as long as the redeemed live, and regardless of their physical condition, they can at least continue to pray for themselves and others, and to apply biblical principles to their own thoughts and actions, and to their interactions with others. If there comes a time when, from a worldly or societal standpoint, daily occupational employment is no longer needed, available, or possible, these spiritual endeavors can fill the hours that such employment once occupied. Hebrews 4:9 says that a Sabbath rest remains for the people of God -- referring (in my opinion) to a future eternal state that has not yet begun, and will not begin as long as we are living on earth.
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
When is it okay to rest from one's labors?
I just retired at the end of February 2025. So far it's great! The way I look at the question involves this:
Proverbs 12:24 –Hardworking people rise to leadership and gain control over their lives, while lazy people often get stuck doing work they don’t choose, because they have no other option.
“The hand of the diligent will rule, but the lazy will be put to forced labor.”
Proverbs 12:27 –
“The lazy won’t even cook the game they caught, but diligence is man’s precious possession.”
This means I might start something great, but laziness prevents me from finishing it. Diligence unlocks the value of what I've won. Yes, I can get lazy at times. But it's not wise -- I might not get enough to eat!
Proverbs 12:27 (ESV)
“Whoever is slothful will not roast his game, but the diligent man will get precious wealth.”
If I've diligently worked ("tilled the land," ruled with my hands, roasted my game...), then stepping back from active labor is legitimate as part of a season of life.
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