“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, and I want to encourage you to Sabbath, or truly relax, as you establish new habits this year. There’s a reason God advised the Jews to set aside a specific day of the week to relax and unwind. Rest is a sacred thing, and I believe that God’s Spirit resides in times when we intentionally relax and slow down. He communicates to us, leads us, and blesses us with great interactions with Him in such moments. I’m sure you’ll agree with me that our world is strained, and it’s stressed like crazy! People are always busy and rushed, to the point that we’ve turned busyness into a virtue. For example, if I call you and say, “Hey, I know you’re super-busy…,” that’s a compliment in certain ways. “Hey, I know your schedule is wide-open and you probably don’t have anything to do,” on the other hand, is an insult. As a result, having a packed schedule and going nonstop has become an expectation, if not an idol. It’s come to the point where productivity has taken precedence over health and sanity, which I believe is unacceptable. Friend, we were created by God to walk in rhythms of rest, and saying no to certain things, whether it’s a commitment, a project, a contract, or even a trip, is truly a sign of growth and maturity. This year, be deliberate about what you say yes to and what you say no to, and make time to spend with your family and friends, and most importantly, with Jesus. Don’t let life pass you by as it whizzes by in a blur. In times of solitude, reflection, laughter, and rest, you will find abundant eternal life, and your legacy will be founded on such things. Today, follow the Lord’s lead and rest on the Sabbath. I can assure you that it will improve every aspect of your life, which is great news! |
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for the promise of entering your rest being true. Teach me to slow down and seek you out when I need to unwind.
Reflection
What is the best way for you to enter God’s rest? How can you make resting more intentional this year?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
2 Responses
Dear Bobby
Your wise bible words are deeply needed and valued. I’m 64, I felt the pressure circling me 20 years ago and I responded as best I could at that time. Pressure to be a better survivor???
Survival of the fittest says Take what you can and leave nothing for others. Jesus reversed that. There is abundant life in him.
You guys are awesome for such a time as this RAK doing randomness acts of kindness anon
Ron Nanton AB Canada