Soul Care Part 4: SabbathSample

Soul Rest

Sabbath has been a part of God’s created order from the very beginning (Genesis 2: 2-3), but time and time again, God’s people have fallen prey to the temptation to take other paths and avoid carrying out His commands. As worldly worries and burdens weigh us down, it can be so easy to believe the lie that His ways are too hard and to look for an "easier" way.

Although it may seem counter-intuitive, it is only through His created order and following the way of Jesus that we can find true rest. And isn’t that something we all desperately need?

Ask Yourself:

-How might someone come to believe that God’s commands are burdensome?

-What are some ways that people try to find relief, rest, or relaxation, especially during stressful situations? How effective do you think these strategies are? How long do the effects last?

-How is rest for your soul different from sleeping or engaging in mindless entertainment? Why is it so attractive to us? Why is it so necessary?

Pause to Pray:

Jesus, my heart is weary and burdened about ________________. Teach me to walk in your ways and trust you. Help me to find true rest for my soul.

Take a Next Step:

Start to lay a foundation for developing your regular Sabbath practice. Choose a period of time during the week that you can begin to set aside your burdens and be completely available to God and His rest. Schedule the time into your calendar, if necessary, to help you avoid distractions.