Don't Take Time Off From Jesus

There are times when we step away from our normal rhythms—a weekend with friends, a long-awaited vacation, or holiday gatherings. These moments are gifts: opportunities to recharge, reflect, and reconnect.

Other times, we’re on mission—helping elderly parents, traveling for work, attending a conference. These are purposeful moments: chances to serve, grow, and produce.

Still other times, we return from spiritual triumph—a mission trip, a Gospel conference, a speaking engagement. The spiritual high lingers, but our bodies are exhausted. We tell ourselves, “I deserve some me time.” And subtly, we begin to disengage.

I call these away times—moments when we’re away from home and away from routine. They’re part of life. We all have them. But if we’re not careful, they become spiritual blind spots—or potholes. The mind drifts from our rhythms, and tragically, so does our awareness of Jesus.

I see this often. When we’re supposed to meet weekly, one or two brothers might say, “I’m traveling for work,” or “I’m on vacation.” Then we don’t hear from them for two weeks. No prayer request. No update. No check-in.

It’s happened to me many times. Before I travel—whether for work or leisure—I’ll download a bunch of videos to my iPad and tell my D-Group brothers I can’t join. Unconsciously, I’m telling myself I deserve a break from Jesus. But taking a break from Jesus can have serious consequences.

When we step away from spiritual routines—church gatherings, men’s group, morning devotions, prayer rhythms—we risk entering battle without armor. Scripture warns:
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” — Ephesians 6:11

Remember David? When he took a break from his war routine, he saw a beautiful woman and committed a deadly sin. One brother recently returned from vacation and confessed soberly, “I sinned.” He had let his guard down. His mind wandered. His heart drifted.
Every day is a battle. Even when we take a break, Satan never does. When our routine shifts, the enemy often strikes hardest—when we’re isolated, distracted, or lulled into complacency.

Jesus modeled rest, but never disconnection.

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

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.” — Matthew 26:41

Even in solitude, He stayed alert. Even in exhaustion, He remained connected to the Father.

Think of your away time as battle time. You’re entering a fight—so prepare to win. Here are four practical ways to stay spiritually grounded, even when you're off the grid:

• Spend time in solitude to identify your vulnerabilities. What are your weak spots during away times? Social gatherings with drinks? Time alone in a hotel room? Traveling with someone of the opposite sex? Late-night binge watching? Girls on the beach? These are traps. No general sends his soldiers into danger unprepared. Avoid them. Run from them.
  “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion…” — 1 Peter 5:8
  
  
• Send a prayer request before you go. My friend Brent always does this before overseas mission trips. I’ve started doing the same. It’s a simple act of humility and wisdom—and a great comfort knowing someone’s got your back.
  “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” — James 5:16
  
  
• Give your best friend permission to check in. Accountability isn’t weakness—it’s strength. Tell your brothers where and when you might be vulnerable. Ask them to call you. That’s your air cover.
  “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17
  
  
• Jump into your D-Group, even for 10 minutes. A short check-in can recalibrate your heart. You don’t have to stay long—just pop in, say hi, give a quick update, and ask for prayer. If you’re with family, you’re modeling how to walk in faith. If you truly don’t have 10 minutes, record a short audio and send it to your group. Your brothers are there for you—be there for them.
  “Do not give up meeting together… but encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10:25

You may be at home or away. Your priorities may shift. Your routine may change. But your focus should never shift away from Jesus.
“Fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” — Hebrews 12:2

Yes, take care of your family. Be present in your work. But let Jesus be the center of your everyday life—at all times, in all places.
Jesus doesn’t take time off from loving us. Let’s not take time off from following Him. Whether you're on a beach, in the mountains, or staying home alone—stay alert. Stay armored. Stay connected.
“Blessed is the one who remains steadfast under trial…” — James 1:12

So next time you pack your bags, pack your Bible. Text your brothers. Pray before you go. Because every moment is holy—but only when Jesus is in it. That’s why we’re called to be consecrated.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.