Hey Clawson Family!

Song: 

Scripture:

Exodus 20:8-10 (NLT) – "Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God."

Mark 2:27 (NLT) – "Then Jesus said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath.’"

Devotional: 

Rest is often seen as a luxury or something we do when we find the time. But in God's perfect design for creation, rest was not an afterthought; it was part of the rhythm of life from the beginning. God Himself, after creating the world, took a day to rest. It wasn't because He was tired but because He was setting a pattern for us to follow—a pattern that we often overlook in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The concept of rest is deeply spiritual. It's not just about physical relaxation; it’s about recharging our souls, realigning with God, and reflecting on His goodness. A day of rest allows us to put aside our tasks and focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God and the people He has placed around us.

Planning a Day of Rest:

1. Set Apart the Day: Just like God made the seventh day holy, we are called to set apart a day for rest. Mark your calendar. It might be a Sunday, or another day that works for you. Treat it as sacred time—no errands, no work, no distractions that will draw you away from God’s peace.Prepare Your Heart:The day of rest is not just about ceasing from work; it’s about shifting your focus to God. Begin with prayer, asking God to help you enter His rest. Acknowledge the busyness of the week and give it to Him. Set the intention to be present in the moment.

   
   

2. Plan for Refreshment: Rest isn’t just about inactivity—it’s about rejuvenation. What refreshes your soul? It could be reading Scripture, taking a walk in nature, journaling, or even spending quality time with family. Don’t feel pressured to be "productive" in the worldly sense—allow yourself to simply be. Rest in God's presence.

   
   

3. Let Go of Distractions: Technology can be a major source of distraction. Turn off notifications, put your phone aside, and avoid checking emails. The day of rest is meant to help you reconnect with God, not with your to-do list. Allow yourself to experience the freedom of not having to "do" anything.

   
   

4. Rest with Others: One of the gifts of a day of rest is that it often provides time to spend with loved ones. Share this day with family or friends. Enjoy simple moments together, whether it’s a shared meal, a walk, or simply enjoying each other’s company.

   
   

5. Reflect and Thank God: At the end of the day, take time to reflect on what the day has meant for you. Thank God for the peace and renewal you have experienced. Remember that rest is not just a break from work but a break to renew your spirit and focus on Him.

   
   

   Journal Questions:

   
   

   1. What activities bring you the most rest and renewal?

   
   

   2. What challenges keep you from fully taking a Sabbath day?

   
   

   3. How can you structure your week to ensure you take a day of rest?

   
   

   Training: 

   
   

   Choose a Sabbath day this week. Plan ahead to ensure you truly rest—turn off work notifications, limit social media, and focus on enjoying God, family, and renewal.

   
   

   
   

   Father, thank You for the gift of rest. Help me to trust You enough to take a Sabbath and not feel guilty about it. Teach me to slow down, enjoy Your presence, and prioritize what truly matters. In Jesus’ name, Amen.