“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.”
– Hebrews 4:9-11
It’s the weekend again, so I want to encourage you as you embrace new habits for this year, to Sabbath, or genuinely rest. There is a reason God told the Jews to set aside a special day of the week to break from the routine and simply slow down. In fact, rest is a holy thing and I believe that God’s Spirit inhabits times when we intentionally relax and put the brakes on our frantic pace. It’s in those moments that He speaks to us, leads us, and blesses us with powerful encounters with Him. I’m sure you’ll agree with me that our world is stressed out, man is it stressed out! People are always busy and always hurried, so much so that we’ve made busyness into a virtue. For example, if I call you on the phone and I say, “Hey, I know you’re super-busy…” that’s somehow a compliment. On the contrary, if I say, “Hey, I know your calendar is wide-open and you probably don’t have anything to do,” that’s an insult. So we’ve created an expectation and practically an idol out of having a cluttered schedule and going without stopping. It’s gotten to the point where productivity is valued over health and sanity, and I believe this is wrong! Friend, we are designed by God to walk in rhythms of rest, and it’s actually a sign of growth and maturity when we say no to certain things, whether it’s a commitment, a project, a contract, or even a trip. This year, be intentional about everything you say yes to and everything you say no to — be sure to set aside time to be with your family and friends, and most importantly, with Jesus. Don’t miss out on life as it speeds past you in a blur. Abundant living is found in times of quiet reflection, laughter, and relaxation, and your legacy is built upon such things. Follow the Lord’s example today and embrace Sabbath rest. I can promise you, it will make every part of your life better, and that’s good news! |
Prayer
Thank you, Jesus, that the promise of entering your rest still stands. Teach me to slow down and seek you in moments of intentional downtime.
Reflection
How do you enter God’s rest? How might you become more intentional in resting this year?
3 Responses
Thank You for this message. I am one to burn the candle at both end so to speak. Also, on occasions spread myself too thin. I am very thankful for your daily devotions. This year I am going to work hard at saying no more often so that I do not forget to rest. Rest in knowing my God. Rest in spending more time with loved ones. May God Bless You and Your Ministry!
Thank-you Pastor Bobby. Sabbath rest is a gift and blessing in my life! Thank- you for the prayers. Todays reading is 100% on the mark, Amen!
William (Bill)
I take some downtime and close my eyes.It is a form of meditation.It also helps me to focus on the more important things that I need to do to improve my overall health
and well-being for this year.I settle into a zone of quiet solitude and tranquil peace. Not even saying a word. There are no distractions. It is my inner spirit that talks to God.I ask him for guidance to help me sort out what is the right direction for my life.
If more people would just take some time to relax and unwind. There will be less stress in this World.It seems that everybody is in a hurry to get all their chores done.
And neglecting to set aside some time in prayerful meditation. To be in harmony with God. I hope and pray for 2019 to be a year of better things to come. May Our Heavenly Father continue to bless Bobby Schuller and his family and the Shepherd’s Grove/Hour of Power congregation. Keep the faith alive and vibrant.