Sabbath

Adapted from: Sabbath by Dr. Sam Holm

Finding True Rest: The Gift of Sabbath

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the endless to-do lists and the constant hustle of life? You’re not alone. Many of us are searching for a way to find peace and rest amidst the chaos. What if I told you that the answer lies in a practice as old as creation itself? The concept of Sabbath, a day of rest, is not just a relic of the past but a gift from God meant for you today. It’s about more than just taking a break; it’s about finding true rest for your soul. Let’s explore how embracing the Sabbath can transform your life and bring you closer to God.

Understanding the Gift of Sabbath

The Sabbath is a divine invitation to stop and delight in God and His blessings. It’s a day set apart to cease from ordinary work and to find joy in the presence of God. In the Bible, the Sabbath is described as a gift from God, a command, and a holy practice exemplified by both God and Jesus. It’s not about legalistic rules but about experiencing the fullness of life that God intends for you.

Why Sabbath Matters

1. A Gift from God: The Sabbath is a gift designed for your well-being. It’s an opportunity to step back from the busyness of life and to rest in God’s presence. Jesus said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). It’s a reminder that God cares about your rest and joy.

2. A Command to Remember: While many Old Testament laws are cultural, the moral law, including the Sabbath, remains relevant. It’s a command to remember God’s deliverance and to trust in His provision. By setting aside time for Sabbath, you acknowledge that God is in control and that you can rest in His care.

3. A Holy Practice: The Sabbath is a time to experience the sacred. It’s a day to delight in God’s creation and to enjoy the gifts He has given you. It’s about more than just attending church; it’s about carving out time to meet with God and to find joy in His presence.

How to Embrace the Sabbath

- Stop and Cease: Identify what ordinary work looks like for you and intentionally set it aside. Whether it’s turning off your work emails or setting aside your studies, find ways to cease from your usual tasks.

- Delight in God: Use the Sabbath to enjoy God’s presence and the blessings in your life. Spend time in nature, enjoy a meal with loved ones, or engage in activities that bring you joy and connect you with God.

- Prepare and Protect: Plan ahead to ensure you can fully embrace the Sabbath. Prepare meals in advance or set boundaries to protect this sacred time from interruptions.

Conclusion

The Sabbath is an invitation to experience the best day of your week, a day filled with joy, rest, and connection with God. It’s a reminder that God has done the work, and you can rest in His grace. What steps will you take this week to embrace the Sabbath and find true rest in God? Without taking this step, you might miss out on the peace and joy that God desires for you.