Sabbath, Living From RestSample

Principles of Rest

In this modern age who really understands the difference between work and rest anymore? As one who enjoyed work and seldom stopped to rest, I struggled to distinguish the two. But early in my journey into a weekly Sabbath, Holy Spirit revealed some guiding principles for my rest. By sharing principles before practicalities, I hope that you, dear reader, will be more equipped to find your own rhythm of life-drenching rest in God.

Principle One: Just Be

In Sabbath rest Holy Spirit helps me lay aside doing and just belong to Him. I am not valuable to my beloved Papa because I do things for Him. He loves me because I am His. Period. 

Principle Two: Decelerate 

When it is said that time is speeding up, most people think of events happening in closer succession. Holy Spirit has revealed it also means increased intensity. In Sabbath rest I let time spread out wide and deep and lazy so I can enjoy individual experiences. And I remove some of the intensity from them. I don’t push or stir. I refuse to hit stride. I don’t multi-task.

Principle Three: Notice with Thanksgiving

One of my most debunking habits is not noticing. I can be like a toddler with too many toys in her playpen. I am rendered blind and bored by too many toys and not enough time to play with any one of them. Holy Spirit is revealing that not noticing diverts my sincere thanksgiving. Sabbath helps me notice God’s individual fingerprints so I can thank Him more immediately and sincerely…so I can enjoy Him more intimately…so I can receive His love to saturation. Noticing with thanksgiving also helps me really see God’s people so I can welcome and honor them.

Principle Four: Wonder

Decelerating and noticing with thanksgiving introduces opportunities for wonder. As I move deeper into rest, Holy Spirit unveils my true identity. This continues to be a shocking revelation—I am a child of wonder, easily awed, sweetly surprised, smiling deeply! How could I have forgotten? Rest helps me rediscover who God created me to be. I was created to enjoy God forever.

Principle Five: Reset

A full stop in my week peacefully unveils Holy Spirit’s higher perspective and values. As I let goodness and mercy apprehended me (Ps. 23:6), I have time to exchange last week’s weakness for God’s strength, and yesterday’s humiliation for today’s dignity. Sabbath is a culmination and new beginning.

Principle Six: Return

In Sabbath rest we return to the garden through Jesus. Our All-Sufficient God blurs the lines and softens the light. He walks with us in the cool of the day. He is the broad river in our souls, soothing and washing away the debris, soaking to the cell level. We realize we have all we need in Him. We enjoy the work of His hands. We are fascinated by Him. Amen.