The Pursuit of Holy Leisure: Enjoying God in Everyday Places

by Cara Ray

Genres: Christian Living

Paperback

Published April 14, 2026

Reviews

[Holly]

"The Christian life is not about striving, but abiding."

As a type A, highly productive, high achieving career woman, I value efficiency and effectiveness. I spend my "9 to 5," striving to hit the next target, striving to have our organization hit the next goal, and striving to find ways to improve where we are and grow to new heights. This is my default setting, which is great for work, but not great for my personal time with Christ.

Even as a believer who has been walking with the Lord for over a decade, my quiet time over the years has been one of striving and strife. It's the constant need to check the box, and do the right thing so that I can prove myself effective and efficient to Christ (something he never asked me to do). However, this left me feeling frustrated. I wasn't flourishing in my relationship with Christ. I wasn't in deep waters. I was in the mundane, surface level routine of striving and not really sure how to get out of the rut.

I was offered an advanced reader copy of The Pursuit of Holy Leisure, and I had no idea how God would use this little book to shake me and lovingly scream at me "No, daughter. You're doing this all wrong. I have more for you. I just want you to rest." I started reading this book while on the treadmill (effective & efficient, right?) but found myself coming to tears with each chapter I read. Eventually,I realized the Holy Spirit was trying to show me reading this book was not another checkbox thing I could do to earn some brownie points. I needed to slow down, read, and savor. So, over my Spring Break I set aside a few days to work through this book, and what God did through Cara and her writing is a miracle, and one I am incredibly thankful for. To put it simply, this book has rewired my brain to look at time with God as a leisurely activity I can delight in, as one would coffee with a dear friend, not as something I need to do to keep God's love. Let's jump in to why this book is so special.

Part 1 - Hidden Places. In part one of this book, Cara does an incredible job of rooting the reader in their identity in Christ, for this is where abiding flows from. We can only abide in the vine if we belong to the vine. Cara beautifully shares the Gospel and the lies the enemy will try to wield in order to get you to question your identity, so that the reader can root themselves in truth. Once rooted in truth, the reader is prepared to grow in the love of the Father, and truth of their identity by time in the word and prayer. Cara gives practical, easy to follow advice for both mindset and in practice on how to spend time in the word and in prayer. By doing these, the mind and body can start to shift into seeing time with Christ not as checkbox, but as Holy Leisure.

Part 2 - Familiar Places. Because Jesus is not confined to a prayer closet, but is to be carried with us in every expression of our life, Cara spends the next part of the book explaining how to enjoy Holy Leisure in the familiar places such as home, work, in community, and in recreation. We are called to do everything unto the Lord, and subtle mindset shifts that Cara offers allow us to easily pursue resting in Christ not only when we physically rest, but also as we physically live and move and enjoy our being.

Part 3 - The Hard Places. When trials, tribulation, and the wilderness season comes, it is easy to forget our identity in Christ. What's more is that pursuing Christ becomes challenging because we often don't understand what He is doing and are pleading for the season to end. What Cara does so beautifully in this portion of the book is remind the reader of their identity in Christ, and when it starts to shake, where to turn to for help. She offers simple models to help assess the wilderness, prepare ourselves for/in the wilderness, and how to rest in God's love when things feel turbulent.

Part 4 - The Fruitful Places. Cara closes the book by explaining what the results will be if we take time to truly pursue Holy Leisure, which is fruitfulness. She boldly proclaims the promises of God that state what we will be like the more time we spend with him.

While the book touches on the ways we as Christian know how to grow in Christ (prayer, reading scripture, and community) Cara's approach changes the mindset. Instead of a never ending task to do, she challenges the reader to enjoy their time with Christ and truly abide in him. Since putting her practices into place, I have already seen how my time with Christ has shifted throughout my entire day and therefore my life. When we truly rest in our identity in Christ, we can truly rest in all things, because He himself is rest, and all he does is bid us to come and delight in him.

[Juliet Davis]

The Pursuit of Holy Leisure truly transformed how I view my quiet time with the Lord. As someone who considers themselves a “box-checker”, I felt convicted and challenged by this book in the best way. I was reminded how the Lord DELIGHTS in us and genuinely enjoys spending time with us. Additionally, as someone who is also in a season of suffering & waiting, I found very practical tools in this book that encourage me to truly turn towards Jesus and find comfort in the fact that He knows me better than anyone. I cannot recommend the Pursuit of Holy Leisure enough!

[Jana Carlson]

This book succeeds in transforming a “have-to” attitude about spiritual disciplines like Bible reading and prayer into a “get-to” mindset.

**5 Things I Love About This Book**

1. It’s rich and deep from start to finish. There’s no fluff, yet it’s still accessible and easy to read. It’s really quite remarkable how Cara Ray managed to craft such a meaty message that’s also as refreshing as a glass of iced tea on a hot day.

2. It’s jam-packed with Scripture. Every page references the Bible, often many times. And it’s clear from Cara’s own words that her heart and mind are saturated with God’s Word. I also appreciate the suggested Bible verses for going deeper at the end of each chapter.

3. While it’s clear that Cara’s primary source for this book’s content is the Bible, she doesn’t shy away from crediting dozens of other followers of Jesus whose words inspired or informed her. She generously includes helpful quotes and abundant footnotes, which I love because they direct me to more valuable books and resources.

4. Cara’s personal anecdotes demonstrate her authenticity and leave no room for intimidation. Yes, she writes about some deep and heavy topics, but she keeps it real. These glimpses into her life and heart add warmth and credibility to her message.

5. It’s full of encouragement, insight, and practical instruction, but doesn’t avoid hard truths. I was deeply convicted many times, yet encouraged and inspired at the same time. It’s a robust “equipping” book, not just a soothing, feel-good indulgence (though I assure you I definitely felt good because of the glorious truth Cara’s words highlighted).

If you don’t desire to spend time in God’s Word, read this book; it’ll leave you craving communion with Christ.

[Ashton]

Really great book to read in four parts with others. Incredibly digestible & practical right away. Has changed my heart posture as I approach my time with the Lord 🩷

[Christiana Tate]

This book is exactly what I was needing in my current season of life! I know in my heart how as a believer it’s so important for me to spend time in the Word, but I can so easily turn it into an item on my “to-do” list, rather than enjoying spending time with the Father. This was such a sweet reminder that there is absolutely nothing I can do to take away His love for me, which in turn takes off the pressure of me being “perfect” with my quiet time, rather just delighting in time with His Spirit. Highly highly recommend!

[Aaron]

In The Pursuit of Holy Leisure: Enjoying God in Everyday Places, Cara Ray invites readers to discover the joy of encountering God in the ordinary rhythms of life. The book begins by grounding us in our union with Christ. Any lies that keep us from drawing near to him and spending time with him are confronted by the truth of who we are in Christ and the reality of our secure union with him.

Ray beautifully explores what it means to know Christ, savor the sweetness of his words, and cultivate personal, intimate communion with him through prayer. What I appreciated most was her call to secrecy and stillness—to pursue time alone with God and delight in his presence away from the noise and distractions of daily life.

Rhythms and Opportunities

I was especially surprised to see the many areas of life touched by holy leisure. I was particularly moved by her discussion of training our children in the instruction of the Lord. There are so many moments and opportunities with my children that I can easily take for granted. I renewed my commitment to make the most of these years while my children are young and to cherish the daily rhythms that will one day pass.

I was also pleased to find a theology of art woven throughout the book. Ray reminds us that creativity is a gift from God and that our art can be an opportunity to honor Christ, reflect his beauty, and point others toward him.

Presence and Fellowship

The final section addresses darkness, suffering, and seasons of deep hurt. In a deeply personal and sensitive chapter, Ray speaks honestly about doubting God’s goodness, especially in seasons of suffering and when we have been sinned against. Yet she offers lasting hope by reminding us that our King, Jesus Christ, entered into the deepest suffering, conquered sin and death, and emerged victorious.

The Pursuit of Holy Leisure is one of the richest modern books on the Christian life I have ever read. It goes deep while casting a wide vision for how we encounter God in every area of life. If you desire more of God, this book will help you slow down, delight in his presence, and cultivate deeper fellowship with Christ.

I received a media copy of The Pursuit of Holy Leisure and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep

[Cheryl Balcom]

The Pursuit of Holy Leisure by Cara Ray offers a refreshing and thoughtful look at what it means to cultivate a vibrant relationship with Christ. I initially expected a book about improving my daily “quiet time,” but it turned out to be so much more. Rather than presenting spiritual disciplines as another box to check, Cara reframes them as part of a joyful, lifelong pursuit of God. The theme of our union with Christ runs beautifully throughout the book, tying the chapters together and giving the concept of holy leisure both depth and clarity.

Before reading, I might have defined “holy leisure” simply by the words themselves—something peaceful and restful, like sitting under a shady tree with a Bible. Cara expands that understanding into something richer: a purposeful pursuit of God’s truth, goodness, and beauty that strengthens and equips us to face life with joy.

Several insights stood out to me, including the realization that the book functions almost like a blueprint for abiding in Christ. I also appreciated the connection between holy leisure and spiritual warfare—two ideas that sound like opposites but actually work together, with the former preparing us for the latter. One of my favorite lines captures this beautifully: “My flesh wants leisure, but my soul needs holy leisure.”

Ray writes with warmth, clarity, and a deeply encouraging tone. Her voice is confident in Scripture without ever feeling heavy-handed; reading the book feels less like a lecture and more like being offered a comforting cup of tea.

This book would benefit both new believers learning how to walk with the Lord and seasoned Christians whose devotional life has begun to feel dry or obligatory. Page after page contains memorable insights, and by the end I came away with a deeper appreciation for holy leisure as a restful devotion—a wholehearted pursuit of Jesus that flows from delight rather than duty. It’s a beautiful reminder that fellowship with the Creator of the universe is not only possible but meant to be richly enjoyed.

[Tim Ray]

I want to start by being upfront that I’m the author’s husband. That naturally gives me a front row seat to her life and message, but I also know how important it is that this review reflects the content of the book itself and not just my relationship to her.

This book is the real thing. I had the pleasure of reading it both in process and in it's finished form. There is no fluff, no forced inspiration, and no surface level encouragement. It is thoughtful, honest, grounded, and deeply rooted in biblical truth. You can tell this message has been lived, wrestled through, and shaped through a genuine walk with Christ.

The concept of “holy leisure” is both refreshing and convicting. In a world that constantly pushes productivity and performance, this book calls you back to abiding in Christ and enjoying Him in the everyday moments of life. It is not about doing less for the sake of comfort, but about being rightly aligned with Him so that your life flows from rest in Him rather than striving apart from Him.

What I appreciate most is how practical it is. This is not just a book of ideas. It leads you to examine your heart, your rhythms, and your relationship with Christ, and it gives you a clear path to begin living differently right away. It doesn’t pull you away from responsibility, it helps you engage it from a place that is more grounded, more aware, and more rooted in Him. It meets you where you are and pulls you in deeper to Him.

I’ve watched the author live this message long before it became a book, which is why I can confidently say this is not just well written, it is authentic.

If you feel stretched, distracted, hurried, spiritually dry, or like your time with Christ has become routine or shallow, this book will give you a clearer, deeper way to engage with Him in the middle of everyday life. It will challenge and encourage you to seek Him first and experience the beauty of a life rooted and abiding in Christ through the pursuit of holy leisure.

[Keri Willis]

If you are like me, you probably feel a bit of guilt for just sitting and listening to the birds sing or the waves crash on the shore. My heart knows I am sitting in the presence of the Holy Spirit, but my brain tells me I should be "productive." Reality is that sitting at the feet of my Creator in His creation is being productive--not only productive but obedient.

In "The Pursuit of Holy Leisure," Cara invites the reader to delight and rest in the presence of God. She encourages us to not only set aside sacred moments but to view every moment as sacred and an opportunity to fellowship with our Savior. She takes the reader on a journey to discover how God created us to be in communion with Him and how that benefits us and blesses Him.

Have you ever been so thirsty you didn’t realize how much you needed water until you started drinking? That is how I feel about Cara’s book. It is like living water for your dry and parched soul. She invites you to sit with Jesus in the “cool of the day” and enjoy His presence. This is a training manual for learning how to be still, to rest, and abide in Him.

If I could give this book 10 stars, I would. I will be reading this many times over. I will also be giving this as a gift to MANY friends who are simply too busy for their own good.

[Julie]

This book is a Blessing! I am grateful to be among the first to share and benefit from its knowledge and truths.

It is very clear that Cara took her time while doing research for this book. She has gleaned much information through that research and has shared the most helpful and beneficial information with "us", her readers.

My suggestion to you as you pick up this book to read, is to read it 'actively'. Have pens, highlighters, a journal, and most importantly your Bible close at hand and readily available to pick up and use while reading. Underline, circle, star, make notations throughout the pages, and then journal your thoughts about those portions that jumped out at you. You will value those notes later down the road.

For all who take time out of your day to spend communing with God through this book, those minutes (more often 'hours') gleaning nuggets of nourishment, truth, and encouragement along with Fellowship with your Abba Father will be restored through bountiful overflowing blessings back into your day, week, months to come.

Believe me, you won't be disappointed whdn you get this book. Why not purchase an extra to give to someone else who may need its wisdom and encouragement too?

[Catherine L]

The Pursuit of Holy Leisure by Cara Ray provides a meaningful look at finding pleasure in spending time with God through His Word and prayer. It is neither a dry “how to” book nor a treatise on the benefit of these spiritual disciplines, but a deeply encouraging invitation to rediscover the delight of being in God’s presence for its own sake.

In terms of the details, the book is well-organized, well-written, and thoughtfully structured. In addition, Cara supports her message well with quality sources, impactful quotes, relatable stories, and insightful analogies. Most importantly, The Pursuit of Holy Leisure is scripturally sound–aligned with the truths of God’s Word and emphasizing His desire that we abide in Him.

Beyond the details, I found the book enjoyable and truly moving. As I read, I could sense the Holy Spirit stirring my heart and drawing me back to God’s Word—not for study or teaching preparation—but simply for the sheer pleasure of being with Him.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, intimate relationship with God, The Pursuit of Holy Leisure is worth your time. It reminds us that time spent in God’s presence is both a privilege and a pleasure. Truly, it is holy leisure.

[Julie Ramirez]

This book is a refreshing and much-needed perspective for anyone who tends to approach their faith like a checklist. It centers on the idea of otium sanctum, or holy leisure, and challenges the mindset of treating spiritual disciplines—like prayer and reading Scripture—as tasks to complete rather than opportunities to truly commune with God. Instead, it invites readers to experience joy and rest in His presence, even in the middle of everyday life, work, and difficult seasons.

What stood out most to me was how practical and personal the book felt. The reflection questions at the end of each chapter helped me go deeper and apply what I was learning in a meaningful way. I also appreciated the different approaches presented early on, which helped me evaluate how I currently spend time with God and how I could grow. Overall, this book helped me better understand what “holy leisure” looks like and how to genuinely enjoy God in every part of life.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who feels like their quiet time has become more of an obligation than a joy and is looking to rediscover a deeper, more life-giving relationship with God.

[CZD]

Cara Ray has written a beautiful book—one I know I will return to again and again.

One idea that has stayed with me is her description of time with God as breathing. It gently revealed something in my own life: for the past few years, I’ve been breathing shallowly in my relationship with Him. I’ve spent time in the Word and remained faithful in study, but I haven’t been still. I haven’t been quiet before Him.

As someone with asthma, this metaphor feels especially personal. During an attack, it’s often harder to breathe out than to breathe in. And when I can’t fully exhale, I can’t fully inhale either. My breathing becomes shallow—so gradually that I don’t notice until my body begins to panic from lack of oxygen, and I reach for my inhaler.

In many ways, this book has felt like an inhaler for my walk with God.

It has reminded me of the importance of stillness—to be “quiet enough to hear God’s truth and tender enough to receive it.” Not just to take in truth, but to release the distractions that keep me from fully abiding in Him.

This book is an invitation: to breathe deeply again. To abide. To rest. To grow.

[Stephanie O'Donnell]

I loved The Pursuit of Holy Leisure! I was not previously familiar with the term "holy leisure", until I picked up this book. I now know that it is a reality most Christians long for, yet often feel they fall short of in this busy world. Holy leisure is a concept that Ray traces back to the early church fathers who defined it as restful devotion (Does that sound as lovely to you as it does me me?).

This book is well written and easy to read. Cara weaves Scripture with engaging stories to bring deep and challenging truths to a practical, heart level. Each chapter ends with some questions to enable readers to reflect and apply what they’ve learned. I was so blessed and helped in reading this book, especially the much needed reminder that I am in Christ, and he in me. The way she broke this truth down resonated with me like it never had before.

I highly recommend The Pursuit of Holy Leisure!

[Jennifer Sakata]

Grace is hard to come by when we're too busy to welcome it. Holy leisure is, as the author puts it, "Graciously living out our faith in every season and circumstance; responding to life not with striving, but with a restful confidence rooted in Christ's sufficiency." Written in four parts, Cara's book offers tangible practices of slowing down and learning to still with God in Hidden Places, Familiar Places, Hard Places, and Fruitful Places. Cara gently welcomes her readers to a pace that strengthens relationships, cultivates soul-nurturing habits, and deepens faith. My favorite part of the book: the deep breath I'm motivated to take every time I open it.

This book is a must in our fast-paced, often anemic faith culture. I highly recommend for personal growth, Bible studies, and for ministry leaders in spiritual formation.

[Ellen Chauvin]

Review of advance copy received from author.

Lately, I’ve been feeling the pull to stop doing and start being. To stop with all the busyness and rest in the presence of Jesus. In “The Pursuit of Holy Leisure,” Cara invites readers to delight and rest in the presence of God. How refreshing! Yes, we should have regular times of prayer and reading God’s Word, but Cara encourages readers to see every moment as sacred and an opportunity to fellowship with Him.

The Pursuit of Holy Leisure explores what it means to grow a deep relationship with Christ. This book does not offer another box to check on our spiritual “to-do” list, but urges readers to make our spiritual disciplines a joyful and lifelong pursuit of our Savior.

If you’re tired of making a checklist of your time with the Lord, I recommend this book!

[Matthew Kottman]

Holy Leisure offers a helpful introduction to several spiritual disciplines and encourages readers to create space to attend to God in the ordinary rhythms of life. Cara Ray writes warmly and accessibly, and those who are beginning to explore spiritual disciplines will likely find practical encouragement here.

My main disappointment was the difference between what the title led me to expect and what the book delivered. I anticipated a more sustained treatment of rest—perhaps exploring Sabbath, human limitations, and receiving leisure as a gift from God. Instead, the book functions more broadly as an introduction to spiritual practices. There is good material here, but it wasn’t quite the book I expected it to be. I would recommend it most readily to someone looking for an approachable starting point for developing spiritual disciplines.

[Britt Sanchez]

This book serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the importance of truly dwelling in God’s words, even amidst the busyness of daily life. Cara not only highlights the blessings that come from sweet communion with God but also offers practical guidance for cherishing those moments.
Through scripture-based inspiration, this book emphasizes that no matter how hectic our schedules may be, there are always moments, blessed by the Lord, that we can use to connect with Him.
I finished feeling encouraged by the blessings holy leisure with God provides and capable of how I can make this time meaningful.
I recommend this book to anyone who is looking deepen their relationship with the Lord, especially if you sometimes feel lost about were to start!

[Kiley Kolb]

This book was an incredible and impactful read. It offers deep insight and a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to pursue God in everyday life. What stood out most to me was how personally relevant it felt. There were moments when I would read a chapter and realize it spoke directly to something I had been struggling with that very day or week. The writing is both beautiful and engaging, with stories and clear examples that make the message easy to understand and apply. I especially appreciated how each point consistently pointed back to Scripture. This is a book. I would definitely recommend to a friend and highly recommend to anyone looking to grow in their faith.

[Ann Flagg]

Reading The Pursuit of Holy Leisure is like having a long, satisfying conversation with a wise friend. Cara Ray speaks of foundational Christian truth with clarity, common sense and uncommon sensitivity that is applicable to the daily life of all who seek to live in the grace and strength of God. Her words are fresh, but her topics are timeless. Unpacking the Bible with her own teaching and explanations from saints like Augustine, Calvin, and John Piper, The Pursuit of Holy Leisure focuses on releasing burdens and enjoying God as a soul satisfying way of life.

[Jen Niemann]

In this new book, Cara Ray offers rich insight into the pursuit of the deep rest our souls find in Jesus. Rooted in solid biblical theology, she gently guides readers toward practical ways of abiding in Christ’s presence in everyday life. I especially appreciated the personal stories she shares, along with thoughtful quotes from faithful voices of both the past and present. This book will encourage anyone longing to slow down, seek Christ more intentionally, and grow in a deeper intimacy with Him.

[Caitlyn Desmond]

This book blessed me tremendously! The concept of holy leisure is new to me, yet so refreshing. As someone who is type A and doesn't know how to slow down, this book lifted a weight off of my hurried and sometimes restless heart. Cara's words encouraged and comforted me and every chapter left me more in awe of who God is for me. If you struggle to feel like you are doing enough for God, or if you feel exhausted and restless in your Christian walk, this book is for you. It has completely altered my communion with the Lord and I believe it will do the same for you! 

[Kathleen]

Cara Ray’s book “The Pursuit of Holy Leisure” is a primer for finding deep and meaningful encounters with God every time we open our bibles. From our mindset as we approach our daily devotions to the rhythms we use for prayer and meditation, Cara shows us how to shift from obligation to enjoyment in communing with our Creator. Her heartfelt storytelling and solid scriptural insights make this book much more of a “why-to” than a “how-to.” I strongly recommend it for anyone who wants to experience more intimacy with God in their personal quiet time.

[Cole Ray]

The Pursuit of Holy Leisure is a powerful reminder of the refining nature of Scripture and the deep value of spending time with God. The stories throughout the book make it engaging and easy to apply to everyday life. If you’ve struggled to prioritize time in the Word or tend to approach it with a checkbox mentality, this book is for you. This book shows it's reader how to pursue God in rest and rest in God in our pursuits.

[Lianna Davis]

While I can understand why this book has resonated with readers, I can’t say it taught me much that was new or significantly changed my thinking. It covered a great deal of familiar ground for me. In hindsight, had I looked more closely at the book’s description, I might not have picked it up. I expected a book primarily about the practice of rest, but instead found that it explores the broader theme of the soul’s rest through a variety of spiritual disciplines and perspectives.

[Charisse Compton]

The Pursuit of Holy Leisure makes what many see as a chore beautiful and compelling. If you struggle to maintain consistent time in the Word and prayer, pour over this book! Inside you will find inspiration to seek truth, beauty and goodness in the face of Jesus Christ, along with practical help to push through the setbacks which so easily derail us in our pursuit.

[Reader]

Fantastic book for women of all stages. Very timely and needed at this moment. Thank you Cara!

[Savannah]

One of the most practical, encouraging and comforting Christian living books I have read. Her anecdotes often had me on the edge of my seat and she explains and breaks down concepts in a way that helps the reader understand.

[Amber Thiessen]

There’s a pressure many of us carry in our walk with God—the sense that we should be doing more. Reading more, praying more, showing up more consistently. We often measure our faithfulness by what we accomplish, often with the best of intentions.

But what if spiritual growth doesn’t begin with striving, but with rest?

What if abiding in Christ is less about keeping pace and more about staying rooted?

What would change if we believed our spiritual growth wasn’t personal improvement, but rather growth in Christ?

In her book, The Pursuit of Holy Leisure: Enjoying God in Everyday Places, Cara Ray invites us to reconsider the posture we bring to our spiritual lives, offering a vision of “holy leisure” that reshapes both our effort and our joy in knowing Christ.

She introduces us to the Latin phrase otium sanctum, or “holy leisure,” inviting readers to embrace a posture of rest rooted in our union with Christ. She weaves together this identity with a reoriented understanding of effort—one that doesn’t eliminate striving, but reshapes it—so that we might experience deeper joy in knowing Christ.

If you’re feeling busy and overwhelmed, or maybe you’ve prone to tackling your time with the Lord as a checklist rather than a relationship, this book is a gentle invitation to explore your rest in Christ and live in communion with Him that’s not pressured, but delightful.

Quick Stats
# of Pages: 280
Level of Difficulty: Easy
My Rating: 5 stars

{check out the full review here: https://www.amberthiessen.com/post/le...}