5 Tips for Creating a Day of Rest
Sabbath was intended for God and his people to have intimacy with each other. It is a foreshadowing of our future in eternity where we will all experience the ultimate rest. So since we aren’t there yet, how can we practice rest practically?
Plan accordingly during the week so that you have dedicated Sabbath time. Make sure you prioritize the things that you MUST complete prior to that day, so that you don't make excuses about why you don't have the time. Listen, if you can find time to go to the gym, get your hair done, or attend an event, then you know how to prioritize your time to spend it in God's presence.
Make it special. The day is set apart from other days for a reason. Participate in activities that you only reserve for that day. If there are certain podcasts, sermons, albums that edify your spirit then save them so that you can experience them distraction free. If there are certain activities like hiking, fishing, swimming etc. that make you feel alive, dedicate specific time to complete them.
Ditch your watch and calendar. This one is difficult for me because I like to plan every detail out. Remember this is a time of freedom and rest. Planning and micromanaging your rest is not rest. Allow yourself to wake up, go with the flow, and see where God leads you. Don't feel pressure to pray for a certain amount of time or to read a certain Bible plan. If you have to cook or clean around the house talk to God while completing those tasks.
Imagine that you are in the Garden of Eden. Remember Adam and Eve experienced the ultimate rest and peace from walking with God's presence every single day while they were in Eden. Close your eyes and imaging a place free of worry, shame, hurt, and failure. What does that place look like for you? Remember the Sabbath was a way for God and His people to be intimate with each other. Create that space on your day of rest.
Always start off in prayer. Thank God for all He has done and for granting you this time or rest in his presence. Welcome Him into your space and ask Him to have His way with your special time together.
Remember:
Rest is not something that you have to earn. You do not need to barter productivity for rest. Rest is both a gift and a command from the Lord. How important is the quality of your life to Him, that He would command you to rest?
