Have you ever attempted to “do nothing” with Jesus?
It could feel irresponsible to spend time this way. Doing a Bible study or reading a theology book might seem more productive.
This is not to mention all of your ongoing missionary work. Efforts like evangelism, discipleship, and fundraising all require your time and energy.
These are all good and essential things. It’s important to grow in knowledge of God’s Word — especially as you teach his truth to others (2 Timothy 2:15). And Jesus instructs us to partner with him to spread the Good News and teach others across the world how to follow him (Matthew 28:18-20).
But do you ever spend time with Jesus just for the two of you? No working. No planning. No agenda. Just enjoying your Best Friend (John 15:15).
I (Bill) was reminded of the value of simply being with Jesus while leading a retreat for a group of pastors in Mexico.
During our time practicing extended solitude, I hiked into the hills above the retreat center. I was lying in the quiet, watching the hawks, when I noticed one of the pastors sitting on a rock in the distance.
Normally this pastor would work a long day at a hot factory. Then he would come home to a church that needed him, plus a wife and two children who needed him more.
But on this day, this busy pastor was resting with Jesus on a rock and looking down on the neighborhoods where he ministered. He chose precious time with his Lord and Savior over productivity.
I sensed God’s smile on what we were doing.
“Doing Nothing” in the Bible
It might feel irresponsible to set aside work — but you are actually responding to the call of the Spirit.
The invitation to “do nothing” is found throughout God’s Word. For example:
The Bible commands God’s people to “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” The idea of the Sabbath is to do no work — or to “do nothing” — for one day a week. It’s meant to create space for resting in God and trusting him (Exodus 20:8).
The Psalms reassure us that God leads us to spacious places to share in his delight. This is especially important during times of distress or conflict (Psalm 18:6, 16-18,19).
Then Jesus reminds us of the importance of prioritizing the One Thing that matters most over the “many things” we could be doing (Luke 10:41-42).
How “Doing Nothing” Does “Something” In You
The biggest blessing of being with Jesus instead of doing for him is spending time with the One you love. It’s important to keep that central.
An additional blessing is that “doing nothing” with Jesus produces significant fruit in your heart and life.
Spending five hours alone with Jesus was a new experience for our pastor friend in Mexico. Withdrawing from his busy life likely made him feel jittery and uncomfortable.
It’s normal to feel distress when you slow down. This uncomfortable path is actually what leads to recovering your best life in Christ.
Extended time in solitude helps you become aware of your hurts, needs, and longings. Then you can express them honestly and prayerfully through practices like journaling or meditating on a psalm of lament.
Sharing your real struggles and raw emotions with Jesus cultivates a deep, authentic friendship with him that goes beyond “doing” and “activity.” It also creates space for you to receive his love and care in the areas you need it most.
“Doing nothing” with Jesus is a starting place for becoming healthy and whole. It leads to renewed intimacy that supports emotional healing and relational growth.
Being with Jesus is foundational to becoming like Jesus.
How “Doing Nothing” Is Loving
Still, many pastors and missionaries feel it’s unloving to “do nothing.” They’re concerned about neglecting their families, churches, or organizations.
It is loving to consider the needs of those you love. You likely have to get creative about scheduling time away while balancing the responsibilities of marriage, parenting, and ministry.
Yet it’s important to acknowledge that prioritizing intimacy with Jesus is also loving — not only for you and Jesus but also for those under your care.
If you spend enough time with no agenda, you will notice what God is doing. You might hear his voice and discern his movement for your ministry. He becomes the Missionary who’s leading the charge.
Doing less teaches those under your care to depend on God more. You’ll learn to follow Jesus together as you trust him and wait on his timing rather than trying to make things happen.
The most loving thing you can do for others is to grow in personal affection for Christ. It’s what those you care for most need.
Learn to Lead From Intimacy With Jesus
Does this article stir your heart to become a loving and healthy leader who prioritizes intimacy with Jesus? Here are a few steps you can take:
#1 Read this
Your Best Life in Jesus’ Easy Yoke: Rhythms of Grace to De-Stress and Live Empowered will help you learn Jesus’ unhurried rhythms of grace. It equips you to grow in spiritual disciplines, such as solitude, so you can live and lead from a place of closeness with Jesus.
#2 Come on retreat with Soul Shepherding.
Can you imagine yourself “doing nothing” with Jesus in a beautiful nature location? No ministry. No responsibilities. Just making space for the spiritual renewal you long to experience.
Each 5-day retreat is designed to help you go deeper with Jesus in emotional health and loving leadership. Every day includes teaching, guided spiritual disciplines, and extended times of solitude and rest to help you cultivate deeper intimacy with Jesus.
Missionaries, if you cannot join us in person, you can also join us virtually for a retreat. We would love to have you!
We pray that your life in Christ flourishes as you accept his invitation to get away with him.
