Rest for Weary Souls
By Sabbath, we mean an intentional time of rest and resistance to busyness.
Tracing Sabbath Through Scripture
In the Bible, a Sabbath day was instituted by the Lord for his people on the basis of God’s pattern of work/rest at creation (Exodus 20:8-11) and as a picture of Israel’s redemption from their slavery (Deuteronomy 5:12-15). Ultimately, Sabbath rest is a picture of the ultimate rest we receive in Christ and will fully enjoy with him forever when the new heavens and new earth are established. The promise of Jesus still stands: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Trusting Our Creator
Engaging in the practice of Sabbath is a counter-cultural activity that submits to the fact that human beings are creatures. Unlike God, we are not all-powerful, limitless, and self-sufficient. Our culture refuses to acknowledge our limits by promoting endless work and activity. But we are limited and in need of rest. It acknowledges that our world is not upheld by us. It is upheld by Jesus (Colossians 1:15-20). “Sabbath is giving up the illusions of our indispensability” (Marjorie Thompson).
Sabbath is an act of trust. By stopping to rest, we entrust to God our unfinished work. Sabbath also creates space for attention to our souls. As John Mark Comer wrote, “When you are exhausted, you don’t have the energy to do the things that can restore your soul.”
Sabbath is an act of trust. By stopping to rest, we entrust to God our unfinished work. Sabbath also creates space for attention to our souls. As John Mark Comer wrote, “When you are exhausted, you don’t have the energy to do the things that can restore your soul.”
What can practicing Sabbath look like?
First, intentionality in planning a Sabbath is vital. Whether it is a day, a morning, or afternoon, this time should be scheduled and blocked out just like any other activity on our calendars.
Second, this time should unplug us from our work. Distractions like emails should be set aside.
Third, make this Sabbath time life-giving in distinctive ways for you (and your family). For example, Sabbath could be reserved for a special meal each week or a relaxing activity that refreshes your body and soul.
Fourth, prepare your heart for your Sabbath. Write down the things you did not get done before the Sabbath and hand them over to God, trusting you can rest in him from your work.
Lastly, tap into the biblical theme of Sabbath by making it communal as it was for Israel. What does it look like to Sabbath together as friends, in a cohort, or in a community group? These are just a few ideas to use as starting points for incorporating a Sabbath rhythm into our lives.
Second, this time should unplug us from our work. Distractions like emails should be set aside.
Third, make this Sabbath time life-giving in distinctive ways for you (and your family). For example, Sabbath could be reserved for a special meal each week or a relaxing activity that refreshes your body and soul.
Fourth, prepare your heart for your Sabbath. Write down the things you did not get done before the Sabbath and hand them over to God, trusting you can rest in him from your work.
Lastly, tap into the biblical theme of Sabbath by making it communal as it was for Israel. What does it look like to Sabbath together as friends, in a cohort, or in a community group? These are just a few ideas to use as starting points for incorporating a Sabbath rhythm into our lives.
Resources:
- Sabbath: An Enduring Principle for the Soul by Justin Huffman, The Gospel Coalition (article)
- The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer (book)