God commanded for us to rest on the Sabbath just like He had done after six days of creation. Jesus clarifies what the Sabbath is really about: “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.” (Mark 2:27) It seems the Sabbath isn’t just a day of the week, but a time that God has given us of significance. In the Hebrew and Greek translations, Sabbath, it is said to be an intermission or rest from regular work.
Throughout our week, we are likely busy doing this or that. Our bodies were not designed to keep going like the Energizer Bunny. Here are some things that may result due to a lack of Sabbath rest in our lives:
- Spiritually, we may find ourselves drained or numb. Reading the Bible and worshiping God may seem boring or tedious.
- Relationally, we may begin to disconnect from others; might not feel like being around people.
- Physically, we may start feeling physically tired, which can result in us not taking proper care of ourselves. We may also feel sick with stress which can also have an effect on our immune system.
- Emotionally, we may experience instability or moodiness; feeling numb or short-fused. We may also find ourselves feeling depressed, or anxious.
It should be noted that although these can things certainly happen due to spiritual reasons, it is important to seek the advice of a doctor if some of these feelings persist. These outcomes can result from running on empty. The Sabbath is a time that God gives us to be filled up so once again we can feel some excitement spiritually for God; once again want to be a part of people’s lives, have the physical energy to take on the day and the emotional well-being to do these things in a healthy manner.
Even God found value in the Sabbath. Are we above God that we don’t need rest? I know there are people with demanding lives, but bodies still need reenergizing. To those who aren’t running on full capacity and have not set aside time for rest like God has commanded of us, something is eventually going to give. Where will you be then? Find some rest in the Lord and allow Him to refill you.
“As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?” (Psalm 42:1-2)
Scripture references are quoted from the NKJV.