Let's Do As The Lord Does…The Fourth Commandment

Today, let's continue to consider what several of the Ten Commandments have to do with our here and now and what these truths may mean to us in our personal lives. I know there are many different perspectives about this, but it's my prayer that what I've been sharing has both helped and encouraged you! :-)

"'Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work…'" (Exodus 20:9-10 NIV).

Ah, this is one commandment I wish I could skip because keeping it is so much harder than, for example, "Thou shalt not kill." How often do I find myself thinking that another week has gone by, and somehow all the hours and days were filled with tasks, events, and requests—no rest in sight? Since I'm usually invited to sing or speak on Sundays, I must consciously choose another day to be my "Sabbath." And that's the point. I encourage you to be intentional about taking a day to rest and spend in the presence of God. I know how difficult it is because there's always something to do that we think just cannot wait. May I encourage you (and myself!) with this statement?

In a moment, God can help you accomplish what you've been struggling to do in a week.

Do you remember the story of Martha and Mary? Martha had invited Jesus into her home but then had been far too busy preparing the meal and running the household to spend time with Him.

Mary, on the other hand, sat at Jesus' feet and listened. And what did Jesus have to say about the situation? Martha was struggling, and He spoke directly to her, saying, "...''My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.'" (Luke 10:41-42, NLT)

One more thought on this: what you work for can quickly pass away. What God gives you in your time with Him, no one can take away from you.

This commandment is God's protection for you and more—it's a gift! I encourage you to choose to make space for this gift of the Sabbath in your calendar, and you'll undoubtedly experience the deep and wonderful work of God in your life. It is a day of rest because we rest in His presence! :-)

You are a miracle!

Déborah