Read Genesis 2:3 and Exodus 20:8 3 And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. 8 Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
The generations before us may have worked ‘6 days a week, but when they left work at the end of the day, they left work.
We, on the other hand, bring it home in our briefcases and laptops. Then there are all the chores that don’t fit into our 10-14 hour workdays: Weeding, washing and cleaning, plus taking the car in for its oil change and the children for lessons or games.
There are haircuts, faucet repairs, and bill to pay. And games to attend - on Fridays, Saturdays, even Sundays. Don’t laugh. We all know people with schedules like that. Oh, and how about the piano recital and board meeting at church?
We’re running as fast on the weekends as we are during the week. Even going away for the weekend is a chore. There are so many cars on the road that Friday afternoon traffic becomes Friday evening traffic.
Where is the rest in all that?
The biblical idea of Sabbath centers on rest and refreshment. God rested on the Sabbath; He looked at His creation, saw that it was good, and gave Himself time to enjoy what He’d accomplished. That’s the whole idea.
The Jews have understood this principle for centuries. Modern Israel is a remarkable land with a remarkable history. You can hike to the Engedi where David hid from Saul, or travel to Mount Carmel where the God of Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal, or sample water from very spring where Gideon’s men drank before they went into battle.
But don’t go on Saturday. The whole country shuts down for the Jewish Sabbath because they get it. The Sabbath is designed for rest - and every one needs it. Including you.
So you should be resolute to do the following: Take your Sabbath regularly, worship God, spend time with your family or indulge in a hobby God would approve of. You’ll find rest and refreshment for your soul - and that’s a gift Jesus Christ wants to give you each week.
-Steve Farrar-
Responding - Lord, thank You for the blessing of a Sabbath. And forgive me for the times when I have violated Your design for the rest I need.
Following - Sometimes, the best measure of my obedience is what I don’t get done.
Get your subscription at Walk in the Word
