Soul Care Part 4: SabbathSample

Choosing What Is Better

Choosing What s Betterat values productivity – or at least the appearance of it. Multi-tasking and over-scheduled calendars seem to be viewed as indicators of a person’s importance, and their perceived identity and value are directly tied to what they do. Think about it – in the US we typically introduce ourselves by stating our name and our occupation, literally what we "do." So, this idea of stopping all of our "producing" for a full day each week is very counter-cultural, rebellious even.

Jesus tells us that taking intentional time to be with Him is more important than ceaseless activities and expectations of people. He also teaches that we have more value than birds, which produce almost nothing their entire lives. Hmmm ... our misguided attempts to define ourselves through activity and independence leave us confused and exhausted. But the scriptures remind us that there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, if we will have the courage and humility to find our value in Him and to pattern our lives as He designed.

Ask Yourself:

-What kind of roles or accomplishments are you tempted to find your value in? If you had to introduce yourself without naming a single thing you do or have done, what would you say?

-Who do you find it easier to relate to in the account of Mary and Martha? Why?

Pause to Pray:

Jesus, I thank You that You have made provision for a true Sabbath rest for me. When faced with worry and work, help me to choose what is better in You.

Take a Next Step:

-As you continue to invest in your Sabbath rest practice, understand that it will run counter to the way of the world. Prepare yourself to "rebel" against society’s perspectives on productivity and value by memorizing a few key scripture passages that remind you to follow the rhythm of rest.

-Find more resources at www.whoisgrace.com/read.