RESTING DAY
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Exodus 20:8 King James Version (KJV)
Remember the Sabbath day… the seventh day of the week. Different days are observed for different beliefs. Christians observe Sundays. The Jewish population celebrates Friday evening to Saturday evening.
Everyone has their opinions about what day the Sabbath Day should be recognized. You may feel passionate, about the day you have chosen. Though, the Sabbath is very important in many beliefs, there is something more important than observing a specific day of the week. It is something that should be embraced. You may rest, on your day of rest, but do you rest in God?
Some definitions of rest:
- Freedom from activity or labor. Are you free from stress, worry, bickering and complaining?
- Something used for support. Do you depend on God as support? Or, do you expect to receive more support from self, family and friends?
- Peace of mind. Do you have a peace of mind?
Today, peace of mind can be purchased. For example:
- Buy a high-tech security system, for your home.
- Purchase a state-of-the-art alarm system, for your vehicle.
- Obtain a high dollar life insurance policy, for your death.
- Prepay for your funeral arrangements, to alleviate the burden, from your family.
- Invest in a 401K or pension plan, for your future.
- Begin a college fund for your child, on the day of their birth, for their future.
The items above may be things to invest in, and you should ponder upon them. However, many individuals have purchased some or all of the items listed above, and still do not have a peace of mind.
In summary, if you are ladled with worry and stress; always depending on others; and you have purchased the world’s peace of mind, it appears you are placing more rest in people and things. rather than God. This does not mean not to rely on other others and protect yourself. You must ask yourself, how much are you resting in God?
Now, let’s explore the other end of the spectrum, of resting in God. Rest is defined as freedom from activity or labor, however, many have the misguided notion of not doing anything, thinking God will handle everything. The the truth is, He will. But, He will speak to you and guide you in doing things to avoid the stress and worry. One thing we must do is listen and obey Him. Not to become idle, with blind eyes and deaf ears.
Some people believe that if you trust in God, no troubles or afflictions will come your way. Well, we know that is not true, sometimes the ones who believe in God the most are often afflicted more. The truth is, there is Adversary in the world and his sole purpose to cause havoc on those who trust in God.
The moral to the story is, rest in God and work for peace. You rest in God, by believing and trusting He will deliver you in His time and way. Work for peace. Fight against any concepts or notions that will take away from the faith and confidence in God. Fighting to keep peace is the real work. Because the devil is a thief and he loves to rob you of your peace.
If you are tired of being tired. If you find friends and family are letting you down. If you have purchased the world’s peace of mind, but fear and doubt continue to haunt you. Below are some suggestions how to rest and have a peace of mind, with God.
- Move toward God. Journey toward Him with a specific purpose.
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 King James Version (KJV)
- Gain knowledge about God. Study about who He is and what He promises.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29 King James Version (KJV)
- Become familiar with God. Know Him on a personal level.
Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee. Job 22:21 King James Version (KJV)
- Depend on Him. Lean on Him. When you are weak. He is your strength.
Or let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me. Isaiah 27:5 King James Version (KJV)
Let’s recap. Move toward God. Connect with Him. Acquaint yourself with Him. Trust Him. What does those things sound like? That is the makings of a relationship.
Think about it. How does any relationship start? You move toward a person. You learn about their family, background, likes and dislikes. You frequent their company. You get closer to them on a deeper level. Once a relationship is established, you depend on them. You trust them. You come to rely on them when times are good and when times are bad.
Start a real relationship with God, not a watered down church affair, one day of the week. Or, some acquaintance that you know of, but not are close. Build a lasting bond. That is how you rest in God. Taking a day of rest is great. Resting in God is essential to have peace of mind.