Sabbath

What is Sabbath?

In the midst of our busy and driven culture, Sabbath is a day set aside to stop, rest, and worship God.  It is more than just a day off.  It is a spiritual practice established by God for rest.  It is an opportunity to stop striving and working, and trust in God as the ultimate provider and sustainer of all things. 

Sabbath is not the only day that we can find rest for our souls, but the practice of Sabbath makes it an intentional rhythm to our spiritual walks that allows us to:

• Rest in God’s Provision: Sabbath is a time to pause and trust that God will provide for us, even when we are not working.
• Worship and Delight in God: Setting aside the Sabbath allows us to focus on worship and gratitude, celebrating God’s goodness.
• Follow God’s Example: God Himself rested on the seventh day after creating the world, setting a precedent for His people. (Hebrews 4:9-10)
• Renew Our Bodies and Souls: Sabbath provides essential rest, both physically and spiritually, equipping us for the week ahead.

Who should practice Sabbath?

The practice of keeping the Sabbath is deeply rooted in Scripture, beginning with the creation story in Genesis.

“So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.”

– Genesis 2:3

God commanded the practice of Sabbath in the Old Testament. Sabbath served as the covenant sign between Israel and God. The practice of Sabbath testified to God as the mighty Creator (Exodus 20:11) and merciful Redeemer (Deuteronomy 5:15). On the Sabbath, Israel declared total dependence on God, who is more than able to sustain his people even though they rested from their labor.  Even Jesus practiced Sabbath.

“And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read.”

– Luke 4:16

Sabbath is not something that we have to do as followers of Jesus, but something that God invites us to do, to experience the rest that Jesus provides.  

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

– Matthew 11:28

Why do we need Sabbath?

Practicing Sabbath brings many blessings that impact every area of life:

• Spiritual Renewal: Spending time in worship and reflection strengthens our relationship with God.
• Emotional Restoration: The Sabbath allows us to step away from stress and experience peace.
• Deeper Relationships: It provides an opportunity to connect meaningfully with family, friends, and community.
• Perspective and Gratitude: The Sabbath helps us refocus on what truly matters and thank God for His faithfulness. 

How do I practice Sabbath?

• Set Apart the Day: Choose a day of the week to dedicate as your Sabbath. Traditionally, this is Sunday, but it may vary depending on your schedule.
• Plan Ahead: Prepare in advance so that you can fully enjoy the day without distractions or unfinished tasks.
• Focus on Rest and Worship: Spend time in prayer, Scripture, and communal worship, as well as activities that bring joy and rest.
• Unplug from Work: Resist the urge to check emails or engage in work-related activities. Trust that God is in control.
• Engage in Life Giving Activities: Use the Sabbath to enjoy God’s creation, spend time with loved ones, and partake in hobbies that restore your soul.

Sabbath is more than a day of rest; it is an act of faith that declares our dependence on God and our commitment to His ways. By embracing the Sabbath, we align ourselves with God’s divine rhythm, allowing Him to refresh our hearts, renew our minds, and restore our spirits. Whether you are new to the practice or seeking to deepen it, remember that the Sabbath is a gift, a pause in which we can experience the fullness of God’s peace and presence.