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Embracing Sabbath Rest Resources: Find Peace and Renewal in God

In the busyness of modern life, the idea of taking a full day to rest can feel almost impossible. With endless to-do lists, family commitments, and work responsibilities, rest often feels like a luxury we can’t afford. Yet, God designed us for rest—not as an afterthought, but as a rhythm essential to our well-being. From the very beginning, the Sabbath was a gift, a holy pause in the week to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with God.

This week, we’re diving into Embracing Sabbath Rest, exploring the biblical principle of Sabbath and its relevance in our lives today. In Exodus 20:8, God commands, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” This isn’t just a rule to follow—it’s an invitation to step out of the grind and into God’s peace. By honoring the Sabbath, we align our hearts with God’s rhythm, finding renewal not only for our bodies but also for our souls.

In this study, you’ll uncover practical ways to incorporate Sabbath rest into your week, no matter how busy life gets. Together, we’ll learn how the Sabbath is more than a day of rest—it’s a time to trust God, celebrate His goodness, and experience the deep renewal that comes from abiding in His presence. Let’s rediscover the gift of Sabbath and embrace the peace it brings to our lives.

Welcome back to week 3 of our Rest and Renewal in Christ study!

We are now past the half way point and you are all doing a great job! 👏

Here are the links to the last 2 week’s posts on the blog, in case you missed any of them:

The Gift of Rest Week 1 Resources: Renew Your Soul and Body in Christ

The Gift of Rest Week 1 Review: How to Find Peace and Renewal in a Busy World

Trusting God with Your Burdens Week 2 Resources: Find Peace and Freedom Today

Trusting God with Your Burdens Week 2 Review: How to Find Peace and Let Go of the Weight

If you are new here – jump in with our reading this week and catch up on the weekends. All are welcome to join anytime!

This Week's Bible Reading Plan:

This Week’s Reflection and Discussion Questions

Week 3: Embracing Sabbath Rest

Exodus 20:8-10

These verses remind us that God’s command to observe the Sabbath is both an act of obedience and an expression of trust. Setting aside a day for rest and worship honors the rhythm that God established in creation—a rhythm that balances work and renewal. By keeping the Sabbath holy, we dedicate time to focus on God, recognizing that He is our ultimate provider and sustainer. In a culture that often glorifies busyness and productivity, how can the principle of Sabbath help you realign your priorities and deepen your trust in God?

Reflecting on the Sabbath, we see that it’s not just about physical rest but also about spiritual restoration. Observing the Sabbath invites us to pause, reconnect with God, and remember that our worth is not tied to our work but to our identity as His children. This practice teaches us to surrender our striving and rely on His provision. Are there areas in your life where busyness has crowded out time for rest and worship? How might observing a Sabbath bring greater balance and peace to your week?

As you meditate on this command, consider how you can incorporate Sabbath rest into your routine. What steps can you take to protect this time and dedicate it to God? Spend time in prayer, asking Him to help you embrace the gift of rest and trust Him with the work that remains undone. Let this passage remind you that God’s desire for Sabbath is not to burden you but to bless you with renewal and peace.

Leviticus 23:3

This verse emphasizes the sacred nature of the Sabbath, describing it as a day set apart for rest and worship. The command to observe the Sabbath isn’t just about pausing from labor but about dedicating time to gather in worship and honor God. It’s a rhythm that invites us to balance work with intentional moments of stillness and reflection on God’s presence. How often do you treat rest as an opportunity to connect with God, rather than simply as a break from work? What might a sacred Sabbath look like in your life?

The phrase “a sabbath to the Lord” reminds us that this time of rest isn’t self-centered; it’s an act of worship. Observing the Sabbath acknowledges God as our provider and sustainer, giving us space to focus on Him without distraction. The sacred assembly aspect points to the importance of community in worship, where we gather with others to encourage one another and seek God together. Are there ways you can make your Sabbath not only a time of personal renewal but also one of fellowship and shared worship?

As you reflect on this passage, think about how you can incorporate sacred rest into your weekly rhythm. What distractions or obligations might you need to set aside to fully embrace the Sabbath as a time dedicated to God? Spend time in prayer, asking Him to help you honor this day as a time for worship, reflection, and connection with Him and others. Let this verse inspire you to see the Sabbath not as an obligation but as a sacred opportunity to renew your heart and spirit in God’s presence.

Mark 2:27-28

In these verses, Jesus redefines the heart of the Sabbath, shifting the focus from rigid legalism to the gift it was meant to be. The Pharisees had turned the Sabbath into a burdensome set of rules, missing its true purpose. Jesus reminds them—and us—that the Sabbath was created for humanity’s benefit, offering rest, renewal, and connection with God. His declaration that He is “Lord of the Sabbath” emphasizes His authority over it and His ability to fulfill its purpose in our lives. How might embracing the Sabbath as a gift, rather than a duty, change the way you approach rest and worship?

Reflecting on this passage, we see that the Sabbath is an act of grace. It’s not about earning favor with God through strict observance but about receiving His provision and care. Jesus invites us to see the Sabbath as a time to step away from striving and find refreshment in His presence. Are there ways you’ve allowed the busyness of life or even the pressure of “doing Sabbath right” to overshadow its purpose? How can you embrace the Sabbath as a gift that restores your soul and deepens your relationship with God?

Take time to consider how you are honoring the Sabbath in your life. Are you making space to rest in God’s presence, or has it become another item on your to-do list? Pray for wisdom to see the Sabbath through Jesus’ eyes—a gift of renewal and grace, not a burden to bear. Let these verses remind you that the Lord of the Sabbath invites you into His rest, where true refreshment is found.

Hebrews 4:9-10

These verses point to the deeper spiritual significance of the Sabbath as a foreshadowing of the eternal rest we find in God through Christ. The “Sabbath-rest” mentioned here isn’t limited to a single day of the week but reflects a state of peace and restoration that comes from trusting fully in God’s work rather than our own. Just as God rested on the seventh day after completing creation, we are called to rest from striving for righteousness through our works and instead embrace the grace offered to us through Christ. How might viewing Sabbath-rest as a symbol of God’s eternal provision and peace change the way you approach both rest and your faith?

Reflecting on this passage, we see that Sabbath-rest is more than a physical pause—it’s a spiritual posture. It’s an invitation to trust God’s sufficiency, acknowledging that our salvation and sustenance come from Him, not from our efforts. When we rest in God, we affirm that His work is complete and sufficient for our needs, both now and in eternity. Are there areas in your life where you are striving instead of resting in God’s promises? How can embracing His Sabbath-rest bring peace and renewal to your spirit?

Take time to meditate on what it means to enter God’s rest. Are you carrying burdens or striving in ways that God is calling you to release? Spend time in prayer, asking Him to help you trust His provision and find your peace in Him. Let this passage remind you that true Sabbath-rest is found not just in a day but in a life surrendered to God’s grace and care.

Isaiah 58:13-14

In these verses, God calls His people to honor the Sabbath as a day set apart for Him. Instead of treating it as just another day for personal pursuits, God invites His people to see the Sabbath as a “delight,” a time of worship, rest, and renewal. When we honor the Sabbath in this way, we align our hearts with God’s purposes, creating space to experience the fullness of His joy and blessings. What does it mean to “call the Sabbath a delight” in your own life? How might shifting your perspective on rest deepen your connection with God?

Reflecting on this passage, we see that the Sabbath is not meant to be a restrictive obligation but a joyful opportunity to draw near to God. By prioritizing time with Him and refraining from distractions or self-serving activities, we demonstrate our trust in His provision and our desire to glorify Him. The promise of “joy in the Lord” and triumph speaks to the spiritual renewal and blessings that come from honoring this rhythm of rest. How can you reshape your view of the Sabbath so it becomes a sacred time you look forward to each week?

Take time today to reflect on how you observe the Sabbath. Are there habits or activities that keep you from fully embracing it as a holy and joyful day? Spend time in prayer, asking God to help you honor the Sabbath in a way that reflects His purpose and draws you closer to Him. Let this passage encourage you to experience the delight and renewal that come from setting aside time to rest in God’s presence.

To print the 20 Reflection and Discussion Questions for Rest and Renewal in Christ –> Click Here

This Week’s Verses of the Day:

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MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Here is an explanation of our SOIL Bible study method

You can download our Introduction to Inductive Bible Study if you would like to learn more.

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Have a wonderful week in God’s Word – I’ll see you back here on the blog this Friday as we review our study for this week and dig deeper into embracing sabbath rest together!

Grace and peace,

Alicia

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