Ah, the lake. The stillness of the water, the call of the loons, the scent of pine and campfire in the air—God’s creation on full display. A trip to the lake is a gift, a chance to rest and reconnect with loved ones. But as Christians, we also want to be intentional about staying connected to the Lord, even when we’re away from our regular routines.
Vacations and weekend getaways don’t need to mean a vacation from our faith. In fact, they can become meaningful opportunities to draw closer to God in new and refreshing ways.
Whether your lake destination is Door County, Minocqua, or Northern Minnessota, there is no reason to sacrifice your spiritual life while on vacation.
Here are some simple, practical ways to keep your faith strong while you’re away at the lake:
1. Find a Local Church with a Church Directory
Just because you’re away from your home church doesn’t mean you have to miss out on Sunday worship. Many denominations offer online directories that make it easy to locate a nearby congregation. Whether it’s LCMS, Baptist, Methodist, or another fellowship, attending worship while you’re away can be a beautiful reminder that the Church is bigger than any one building—it’s a family that stretches across the world.
“Let us not neglect meeting together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
— Hebrews 10:25 (ESV)
2. Listen to the Bible on the Road
Long drives to the lake are perfect opportunities to feed your soul. Try listening to an audio Bible as you travel. Whether you’re driving solo or with the whole family, Scripture has a way of speaking to us differently when it’s heard out loud.
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
— Romans 10:17 (ESV)
3. Tune Into Sermon Podcasts
Your favorite pastors and teachers are just a click away. Sermon podcasts can be great companions while fishing, hiking, or simply lounging on the deck. Whether you listen to your own pastor or explore others who faithfully preach the Word, it’s a wonderful way to stay nourished by sound teaching while away from your regular pew.
“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”
— Jeremiah 3:15 (ESV)
4. Use Your Home Church’s Live Stream
Many churches now offer live-streamed or recorded services, making it easy to stay connected even while out of town. If you’re able to access Wi-Fi or have a good mobile signal, make a plan to worship with your home church online.
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
— Matthew 18:20 (ESV)
5. Keep a Bible at Your Lake Home
It might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget: have a Bible ready and waiting at the lake. Whether it’s a well-loved paperback or a waterproof edition for dockside reading, keeping one there helps make Scripture reading part of your lakeside rhythm.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
— Psalm 119:105 (ESV)
6. Do Family Devotions Together
The slower pace of lake life makes it the perfect setting for meaningful family time—and that includes time with God. Start your day with a short devotion around the breakfast table or wind down with Scripture and prayer by the fire pit.
“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…”
— Deuteronomy 6:6–7a (ESV)
Final Thoughts
Time at the lake is a blessing—a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. But it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your spiritual growth. With just a little planning and intention, your time away can actually become a spiritual boost rather than a break from your faith.
So pack the fishing poles and marshmallows—but don’t forget your Bible, your earbuds, and your desire to keep Jesus at the center of it all.
Enjoy the lake—and stay anchored in Christ.
All Bible citations from the English Standard Version.
