The Maeda Escarpment — otherwise known as Hacksaw Ridge — was to be taken, no matter what the cost. B company had come to trust Private Desmond Doss implicitly. But the assault to take the ridge was scheduled for May 5, 1945. A Sabbath. Doss asked to finish his devotional time first. This request was not only granted for his company, but the entire assault was delayed until Doss had finished his devotions. Why did he choose to serve on his Sabbath, a day he would usually spend away from everyday concerns in worship and rest? Doss said it was because he was doing good — something his faith taught him to do seven days a week. And on that day, the Americans took the ridge and held it for good.
On Saturday, May 5, 1945, Doss answered the call of duty to his fellow men. In doing so he was walking in the footsteps of Jesus who did not hold back from doing good on the Sabbath.
But what is the origin of the Sabbath that Doss believed and followed? Is it still relevant today?
Genesis 1:1 — In the beginning the heavens and the earth.
The creation story gives humans an understanding of our place in the universe and the meaning of life.
Genesis 2:2,3 — By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he from all his . Then God the seventh day and made it , because on it he from all the work of creating that he had done.
God separated the seventh day from every other day of the week. He specifically blessed this day and made it holy. Why do you think God did this? God set aside a specific day to enable us to rest from the busyness of life, and to enjoy dedicated time with him and his creation.
Exodus 20:8,11 — Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. For in six days the Lord the and the , the , and all that is in them, but he on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
God has given us a weekly reminder that he is Creator. The word “Sabbath” means “rest”. It is interesting to note that before the battle, Doss took the time to remind himself that it is God who gives and values life.
Luke 23:54-56 — It was Preparation Day, and the was about to begin.
God rested on the seventh day after His work of creating the earth. Similarly, Jesus rested in the tomb on the Sabbath from his work of salvation. When Jesus died on the cross he had finished paying for our sins. His work was done — Satan was defeated. The Sabbath is a reminder of both creation and salvation.
Mark 2:27,28 — The Sabbath was made for , not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is even of the Sabbath.
The Lord’s day is for our benefit — a day for doing good and to encourage each other spiritually.
Matthew 12:9-12 — Going on from that place, he went into their synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Looking for a reason to bring charges against Jesus, they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” He said to them, “If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Therefore it is to do on the Sabbath.”
Luke 4:16 — He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the , as was his custom.
Acts 17:2 — As was his , Paul went into the synagogue, and on three days he reasoned with them from the .
Exodus 20:10 — … but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any , neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.
Sabbath is a weekly unplug from the hassle and stress of life, a realignment of our lives in step with our Creator God, and a time to connect with others in worship, fellowship and service.
If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath
and from doing as you please on my holy day,
if you call the Sabbath a
and the Lord’s holy day honorable,
and if you honor it by not going your own way
and not doing as you please or speaking idle words,
then you will find your in the Lord,
and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land
and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob.
Isaiah 58 highlights key principles that were important to Doss — justice, obedience and loyalty. Without a connection to God, the Sabbath becomes an empty day filled with meaningless activities. However, the Sabbath, faithfully honoured with God at its heart, becomes altogether a different day.
Jesus says He wants to give us joy and abundance — the Sabbath contributes to this special relationship, helping us to develop a deeper walk with Him (John 10:10).
The Sabbath shows us the most important things that we need to know. Life did not happen by chance. We were created by a loving God for a close friendship with Him. This was the bedrock foundation of faith for Doss. Desmond Doss wanted to honour God’s Commandments and chose to keep the Sabbath. It was in his relationship with God that Doss found meaning, purpose and the determination that led to the rescue of so many soldiers on Hacksaw Ridge. How do you think the Sabbath will benefit your life?
Today’s fast-paced, multi-tasking and socially disconnected lifestyle has resulted in unprecedented levels of stress. It seems as if our world has gone mad. We feel a sense of unease about all this. A sense of insecurity. A sense of discontentment. A loss of control of our own lives.
As financial security vanishes concern over personal debt has increased. People are overworking to cope. In a global survey of business leaders, accountancy firm Grant Thornton reported that stress levels had increased by an average of over 50 percent in 12 months. The highest stress levels were recorded in South East Asia. Countries such as Australia (48 percent), New Zealand (46 percent) and the United States (45 percent) all recorded major increases in work-related stress.
Personal reflection on any past week results in: “it was too busy”. Harried housewives are talking about their “time crunch”. They work through the day and then perform a “second shift” at home. Quality time in needed sleep has been reduced and the stress of modern life is affecting families and relationships. A Cornell University study revealed that the average American father spends just 38 seconds each day in quality time with his children.
There is a breaking point. Personal health suffers, along with emotional stability and resilience. A new condition called “the Atlas syndrome” has appeared. It refers to the feeling of having the weight of the world on your shoulders.
As people look for answers, a variety of solutions to stress have emerged. Harriet Meyers, president of the employer consultant group The Confidence Centre, has suggested a number of interesting tactics to enable people to cope with stress. These include: planting a tree, feeding the birds, dancing a jig, taking a bubble bath, tickling a baby and avoiding the wearing of tight clothes.
Does God have a solution to the current day issues with stress? Does the Bible suggest a practical plan to help us to rest in a restless world? What did Jesus say to those weighed down with hard work and personal burdens? In this study guide you will discover a lost secret that will help you become a closer friend to Jesus and develop a happy and healthy resilience within a stressful world.
Matthew 11:28 — Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you .
If you would like some rest for your body, mind and soul, then Jesus invites you to come to Him. Jesus wants to spend time with you; quality time and regular time – time away from the frenetic pace of life.
Throughout the Bible God’s people always set aside quality time. This included a full day per week, totally dedicated to spending time in worship and rest with their Creator God. During this day of rest the people would be refreshed and rejuvenated – physically, mentally and spiritually.
Genesis 2:2 — And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He on the day from all His work which He had done.
Exodus 20:10 — … but the seventh day is the of the Lord your God.
God established a day of rest at the origins of this world. After a busy six days creating planet earth, God rested on the seventh day. The word “rest” in the Genesis story is translated from the Hebrew word “Shabath”. In other places of the Bible the seventh day is simply called the “Sabbath”.
It was God who kept the first Sabbath day. This was at least 2,000 years before the birth of the Jewish race, 2,500 years before the giving of the law at Mt Sinai and 4,000 years before the birth of Jesus Christ. In fact, the Bible says the Sabbath is so important it is called “the Sabbath of the Lord your God” (Exodus 20:8).
Genesis 2:3 — Then God the seventh day and it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.
God not only rested on the seventh day, He also blessed it. To bless literally means to “make happy”. The Sabbath is not a boring day of restrictions; it was blessed by God to be the happiest day of the week. God also sanctified the seventh day. To sanctify literally means to “set apart for holiness”. God blessed the seventh day and made it holy. God had such a wonderful experience on that first Sabbath day; He couldn’t keep it to Himself. He gave it as a gift to all humanity.
It is important to note that God has only ever blessed and sanctified one day. He has never blessed the first day or the third day or the fifth day. God did not bless the act of resting, He blessed the day itself. As a result, no matter how sincerely someone keeps a day holy (e.g. Muslims keep Friday), it will never be the Sabbath. No human being can make a Sabbath or change the Sabbath. This honour is totally in the hands of the Creator God.
Exodus 20:8 — the Sabbath day, to keep it .
God took the Sabbath day of rest and placed it right into the heart of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:2-17). Of all the things God wanted His people to do, the Sabbath was placed in His “top ten” list of priorities for loving obedience. The Sabbath rest is not just a “side issue”. Anyone who disregards the Sabbath today is disregarding God’s holy Commandments.
The Sabbath Commandment is the only one which begins with the word “remember”. It is a tragic fact that the most forgotten Commandment in the world today is the Sabbath. In a British survey, over a thousand people were interviewed and asked about the relevance of the Ten Commandments. One of the least remembered and voted as most irrelevant Commandments, was the Sabbath. Only 4 percent of people had even heard of it.
A global count of those who keep the Bible Sabbath reveals that in this time of stress and hectic lifestyle less than 1 percent of the global population keep the seventh-day Sabbath. It is no wonder God said, “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy”.
Ezekiel 20:12 — Moreover I also gave them My Sabbaths, to be a between them and Me, that they might know that I am the LORD who them.
The seventh-day Sabbath is important because it is rich in symbolic meaning. The Sabbath is a sign or symbol representing God as our Creator and Redeemer. If we keep the Bible Sabbath we are signifying that we:
The Sabbath is a special day for us to worship the Creator God, to remember that we were made in God’s image and as such, we have great value to God. The Sabbath openly rejects evolution. It lifts up a powerful Creator God who designed and created something from nothing, through the power of His Word.
God completed His work and rested on the Sabbath. We keep the seventh day Sabbath as a symbol of resting from the impossible task of trying to work our way to heaven (Hebrews 4:9,10).
God says the Sabbath is a sign of sanctification (i.e. becoming holy – Ezekiel 20:12). Just as He made the seventh day holy, now God takes the responsibility of making us holy also. As we spend quality time with Jesus, trusting in His creative power, our lives will change to become like His.
God has singled out a specific day of the week. He asks us to keep it holy and rest during this day. Those who keep the Sabbath trust God’s Word and demonstrate their loyalty to Him through loving worship and obedience.
Mark 2:27 — And He said to them, “The Sabbath was made for , and not man for the Sabbath.”
Jesus clearly says the Sabbath was made for man – not just Jews. The Sabbath is the “Lord’s day” (Revelation 1:10). Indeed, Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:28). The Sabbath was made to remind us of our Creator God, a God who created Australians, Chinese, Africans and Americans – not just Jews.
The Sabbath was created thousands of years before any Jews existed and is called “the Sabbath of the Lord your God” (Exodus 20:10). It is not just the Jewish Sabbath
– it is God’s Sabbath. The Sabbath is a special gift to everyone who wants to have an intimate relationship with Him.
Luke 23:52-24:2 — This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. That day was the , and the Sabbath drew near. (v52,54)
Then they returned and prepared spices and fragrant oils. And they on the Sabbath according to the . (v56)
Now on the day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. (24:1,2)
The Bible is clear. The day before the Sabbath is called the “Preparation” day. The day after the Sabbath is the first day of the week. Therefore, the Sabbath is the seventh day of the week. Jesus died on “Good Friday”. He rested in the tomb on the Sabbath and rose again on “Easter Sunday”. The seventh day of the Bible is Saturday.
It is important to note Luke’s record, that the women kept the Sabbath “according to the Commandment”. This gospel was written nearly 30 years after the resurrection. If there had been a change in the day of worship, then this would have been an ideal time for Luke to record it. Instead, he simply confirms the seventh day Sabbath Commandment.
A simple look into the various languages of the world also demonstrates that Saturday is the Sabbath. In over 150 languages of the world the word that is currently used for Saturday means “the Sabbath”.
To illustrate:
The Jews have been keeping the Saturday Sabbath of the Bible for thousands of years. A study from any encyclopaedia or dictionary will show that the Sabbath is Saturday.
Religious leaders from all different religions agree that the Sabbath of the Bible is Saturday. Here are just a few examples:
“So, basically, Saturday is the Sabbath day. It’s the last day of the week, the seventh day, the day on which God rested after six days of creation. Even modern calendars have Saturday as the last day of the week and Sunday as the first day of the new week.” Catholicism for Dummies, Rev Trigilio & Rev Brighenti
“Is there any command in the New Testament to change the day of weekly rest from Saturday to Sunday? None”. Anglican Manual of Christian Doctrine, p127
“There was and is a commandment to keep holy the Sabbath day, but the Sabbath day was not Sunday. … It will be said, however, and with some show of triumph, that the Sabbath was transferred from the seventh to the first day of the week. … Where can the record of such a transaction be found? Not in the New Testament – absolutely not. There is no Scriptural evidence of the change of the Sabbath institution from the seventh to the first day of the week.” Dr Edward T. Hiscox, author The Baptist Manual.
Luke 4:16 — So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the day, and stood up to read.
When Jesus was here on earth He was in the custom or habit of Sabbath observance and attending a worship service on that day. The Bible tells us that Jesus is our example in all things, particularly in relation to obedience to the Commandments (1 Peter 2:21,22).
Matthew 24:20 — And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the .
While predicting the impending destruction of Jerusalem, Jesus asked His people to pray that they would not need to flee from their enemy on the Sabbath. This destruction took place in 70AD, many years after the life and death of Jesus. It is clear from this statement that Jesus expected and supported His people keeping the Sabbath many years after His death.
Acts 13:42-44 — So when the Jews went out of the synagogue, the Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next . Now when the congregation had broken up, many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas, who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God. On the next Sabbath almost the came together to hear the word of God.
The apostle Paul was a Sabbath keeper (Acts 17:2, 18:4). He, along with the other apostles worshipped on the Sabbath with both Jews and Gentiles. If there was no synagogue in town, Paul would meet by the riverside with the Gentiles. Here he would pray and share the Scriptures on the Sabbath day (Acts 16:13). The Sabbath was certainly the day of worship for the early Christian church.
Isaiah 58:13,14 — If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy day of the LORD honourable, and shall honour Him, not doing your own ways, nor finding your own pleasure, nor speaking your own words, then you shall delight yourself in the LORD; and I will cause you to on the high hills of the earth …
What a wonderful promise. God tells us that if we stop neglecting and trampling all over the Sabbath, He will lift us into a beautiful experience of joy and fulfilment. It will feel as if we are “flying high” riding on the high hills of the earth. The Sabbath is a delightful day where we can forget about the stresses of life. We can focus on spending quality time with Jesus and helping other people.
Isaiah 66:22,23 — “For as the new heavens and the new which I will make shall remain before Me … and it shall come to pass that from one New Moon to another, and from one to another, all flesh shall come to worship before Me,” says the LORD.
In the new earth, God’s people will still come together to worship Him on the Sabbath. The Sabbath was created before man sinned in Eden (Genesis 2:2,3). As such it was kept by God and sinless humanity. God has asked His people to keep the Sabbath throughout the life of this sinful planet and once again He will experience the Sabbath with His people in the new earth.
Exodus 20:8-11 — Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it (v8)
The Sabbath is the most enjoyable day of the week. It’s a day to forget about the headaches and stress of work and spend a full day in rest and relationship with Jesus. The Bible says that even when work gets really busy, we need to still put God first and keep the Sabbath holy (Exodus 34:21). The Sabbath is to be kept for 24 hours from sunset Friday night to sunset Saturday night (Leviticus 23:32). It is like a park in time – an area of sanity and peace with God while protected from the stress of life.
The Sabbath is a day to spend getting to know God better through studying His Word, prayer and worship at church. It is a day where family and friends can meet together and enjoy each other’s company in a spiritual setting. It is a great day to spend in God’s nature, or helping other people who may be sick or discouraged. Jesus gave the ideal example of keeping the Sabbath. He went to worship God at the local church. He healed people of physical illness and also restored spiritual health to people (Luke 13:10-17).
Deuteronomy 4:2 — You shall not to the word which I command you, nor from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.
Acts 5:29 — … we ought to obey rather than .
There are some Christians who keep Saturday as a rest day. Others rest and worship on Sundays. There are sincere loving Christians in both groups. However, most people never stop to ask God which day is correct according to the Bible. You may be thinking, “Well, does it really matter? What’s the difference which day, as long as I keep a day? Surely it wouldn’t matter which day I choose to keep holy? After all, any day will do? Isn’t a day just a day?”
When it comes to man-made memorials or anniversaries such as ANZAC day, Independence Day or a wedding anniversary it is vital that they take place on the specific day relevant to the issue being celebrated or remembered. No-one would suggest “any day will do”. The Sabbath was put in place, not by a human government, but by the Lord God Almighty. This is a specific day that God has established each week, for us to think back and celebrate the love and power of our Creator God.
It is a dangerous thing for us to try and alter an express command of God. When God says something, He means it. In fact, God is always very particular when He asks us to do something or not to do something.
To illustrate – In the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve they could eat from any tree, except one. God specified the one tree. He did not give them liberty to choose any tree they wanted. In the same way, God did not say we could choose any day we wanted as an anniversary of His creation. We simply demonstrate our devotion to Him by our obedience. Now, in Eden, the devil came along in the form of a beautiful serpent and suggested to Eve that God didn’t really mean what He said, and when it came to eating food “any tree will do”.
After all, all trees are alike. What’s the difference? A tree’s a tree and the tree was not poisonous. Adam and Eve did not die because of poison. The issue was obedience, not the tree. In the same way the issue of the Sabbath is obedience, not the day. Unfortunately, this whole world today is in the mess it is because Adam and Eve used their own reasoning above the express command of God.
Some people believe that the Christian Sabbath is Sunday in honour of the resurrection of Jesus. There is not the slightest evidence of this in the Word of God. By that reasoning, why not keep Friday in honour of the crucifixion?
According to the Bible, breaking the Ten Commandments is sin (1 John 3:4). Misguided men have attempted to change the Sabbath to Sunday, however when it comes to the Sabbath day, the best way to honour God is to “obey God rather than men”. God wants you to keep the seventh-day Saturday Sabbath of the Bible.
Revelation 12:17 — And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
God’s last day church will possess the beautiful harmony of obedience and faith in Jesus. Throughout Scripture, it has always been Jesus and the Commandments that are the foundation for the church. Those who are ready and waiting for Jesus to come will be those who love Jesus supremely and demonstrate their love through keeping all of His Commandments. One of these Commandments is the beautiful gift of the Sabbath. This is a perpetual symbol of God’s creative power and grace for humanity.
On one occasion a man stood before a crowd, took a piece of red cloth and publicly burnt it. There was no reaction from the crowd. They just thought he was a bit strange. He then took out a blue piece of cloth and proceeded to burn that cloth also. Once again there was very little reaction. He then took out a white piece of cloth. He showed the cloth to the crowd and burnt the white cloth. By now the crowd thought this must be a joke. They weren’t upset – just bemused. They laughed and scoffed at the man.
The same man then took out the flag of New Zealand. In front of hundreds of people the man burnt the flag and trod all over it. Now the crowd were so upset they attacked him and the authorities threw him into jail. What made the difference? After all, the flag was just a few pieces of cloth sewn together. Some white cloth. Some blue cloth. Some red cloth. The man argued that one piece of cloth is the same as any other piece of cloth. But when those colours are formed to make the New Zealand flag the symbolic meaning becomes enormous. That flag represents New Zealand and all that it holds to be important.
In what ways do you think this story illustrates the importance of the seventh-day Sabbath?
Do you desire to rest in God’s creative power and strengthen your relationship with Him through regularly keeping the Sabbath holy?
The modern landscape sees an increasing reliance on digital platforms—a trend that has been amplified by global events, most notably the pandemic. Remote work and online interactions have become the norm, transforming the way we operate. Many companies continue to favour a hybrid model that blends online and office work.
Amid this shift, a new phenomenon has emerged—Zoom fatigue. The exhaustion and burnout stemming from extensive use of video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Skype and Teams are real and pervasive. Experts say that the issue isn’t the screens themselves, but the cognitive strain caused by prolonged digital engagement. The challenge arises from the constant “switched on” state during these virtual encounters, where we find ourselves interacting with multiple faces simultaneously.
Another facet of this shift is the blurring of boundaries between work and home. This triggers stress and fatigue, rendering a true break elusive.
In response to these challenges, a movement advocating for the right to disconnect has gained traction. An anti-work movement has emerged, which seeks fair compensation and the right to leisure without fear of reprisal. In Portugal, legislation prohibits supervisors from contacting employees outside office hours, a significant step towards restoring work-life balance.
Interestingly, this push for rest echoes ancient principles that can be found in the Bible. Deep within the Ten Commandments, etched alongside laws against killing and stealing, lies a command to rest (see the second book of the Bible: Exodus 20:8-10). This fourth commandment, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy”, affirms the importance of setting aside time for rest. A day of rest isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a decree that underscores the intrinsic value of taking a break.
Modern culture’s frenetic pace is a far cry from a time when weekends were reserved for relaxation and family. In contrast, our society’s move towards a seven-day work week has strained our collective wellbeing. Tragic examples like karoshi in Japan, where overwork has dire health consequences, highlight the dangers of disregarding the need for rest.
Humans are designed to thrive with regular rest. A day of rest translates to enhanced productivity, reduced stress and improved overall health. This biblical principle aligns with current scientific understanding, affirming the intrinsic value of observing a day of rest.
Why a specific day for rest? Exodus 20:11 provides insight, emphasising that God established the Sabbath as a reflection of His own creative rhythm. By resting on the seventh day, God set it apart as a sacred time. This resonates with Jesus’ teaching that the Sabbath was created for humanity’s benefit (see the Gospel of Mark, the second book of the New Testament: Mark 2:27).
The Sabbath isn’t just a day to cease work; it’s a day to connect with God, rest and restore. It’s a special gift in a world where screens clamour for our attention. Rather than being tethered to technology, the Sabbath offers a space for genuine rest—a break from the never-ending digital buzz.
God, the Creator of the Sabbath, invites us to honour the seventh day—a day of communion, worship and renewal. Focusing on Him during this sacred time brings true rest and rejuvenation. As the sun sets on Friday, signalling the beginning of the Sabbath, millions around the world observe this holy day.
In our fast-paced digital age, where screens permeate every facet of life, embracing the Sabbath invites us to break free from constant connectivity. The Sabbath is not just a day off—it’s a reconnection with God, a day to breathe, reflect and cherish the gift of rest.
Does a day of rest and reflection sound amazing to you? Why not give it a try by taking the Sabbath Challenge. You’ll find all the details here.
The original version of this article appeared in Signs of the Times.
Amidst life’s chaos and challenges, the simple act of breathing often becomes a lifeline—a reminder to inhale and exhale, a cue to remain present. Just as we rely on breath to sustain our existence, the Earth, our shared home, also requires its own form of respite. The unexpected silver lining of the global pandemic showcased this need, as satellites revealed a temporary cleansing of the world’s air. The significant reduction in global activities, including road travel, led to cleaner air and reduced pollution in various regions. The lesson is clear: just as we need to breathe, the Earth too requires moments of respite and restoration.
Reflecting on the Earth’s need for rest and rejuvenation prompts us to ponder our own need for renewal. An ancient practice, dating back to the Jewish calendar, provides insight into this cycle of rest and restoration. The concept of Shmita, a sabbatical year, allowed the land in Israel to lie fallow every seventh year. This period of rest enabled the soil to recover its vitality, offering a parallel to the need for humans to pause and recharge. Beyond farming, Shmita also advocated for debt forgiveness, illustrating the interconnectedness of rest, community and wellbeing.
This idea of a recurring rest and renewal cycle is echoed in the Bible. In the first book of the Bible, Genesis, we see that when the world was created, God dedicated the seventh day to restoration—a time for humans to pause, reflect and recentre (see Genesis 2:2,3). This pattern established a rhythm of rest, providing a counterbalance to the demands of work and life.
The concept of a day of rest remains relevant in our modern world. Amidst the busyness and information overload, the need for intentional rest is evident. The seventh-day Sabbath offers tangible benefits for holistic wellbeing.
Sabbath is not just a cessation of work; it’s an opportunity for reflection, connection and restoration. Just as God dedicated the seventh day to rest, Jesus reaffirmed the significance of the Sabbath (see the Gospel of Mark, the second book in the New Testament: Mark 2:27, 28).
In a world driven by achievement and busyness, the Sabbath serves as an antidote to the pressures we face. It allows us to step back, reconnect and find gratitude in the simple joys of life.
Just as this world began with God breathing life into humanity, the concept of rest reminds us of the interconnectedness of all life. Embracing Sabbath is a way to reconnect with God Himself. It invites us to pause, be present and appreciate the world around us. Just as the Earth needs time to breathe and rejuvenate, so do we. In embracing this ancient practice, we restore ourselves, our communities and the environment. A pause in our demanding lives has the power to transform us and bring us closer to a sense of wholeness.
By embracing a day of rest, we align ourselves with God’s intention for a world in balance—a world where rest and renewal are integral to the cycle of life.
Looking for a Sabbath-keeping community? Here’s where to find one near you.
The original version of this article appeared in Signs of the Times.
The concept of self-care has transcended mere social media trends and become a profound movement with real implications for wellbeing. While it might conjure images of luxurious bubble baths and fragrant candles, the roots of self-care delve deeper, offering strategies for effectively managing stress in an unpredictable world. As political unrest, pandemics, natural disasters and economic uncertainties persist, the need for effective stress relief strategies has never been more essential. Amidst various forms of self-care, the power of rest emerges as a potent antidote to stress. An age-old practice of finding solace and connection in the middle of life’s chaos is encapsulated in the idea of a Sabbath rest.
The concept of a 24-hour rest period has ancient origins, dating back to the beginnings of this world. The first book of the Bible, Genesis, tells of God’s creation of the Earth in seven days, culminating in the creation of humans on the sixth day. However, on the seventh day, something unique occurs—God, having completed His work, rests. Genesis 2:2 captures this unprecedented moment, stating that “On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work” (NLT).
The term “rested” in this context is shabbat, signifying a cessation from work. God ceased His labour on the seventh day. Subsequently, the idea of Sabbath rest is reiterated in the Ten Commandments. The fourth commandment encourages the remembrance of the Sabbath day to keep it holy, based on the example set by God Himself during the creation week (the commandments can be found in the second book of the Bible: Exodus 20).
The term shabbat is intertwined with another Hebrew word, nuakh, often used in conjunction with it. While shabbat denotes a literal cessation of work, nuakh encompasses a different type of rest—a settling, dwelling, and finding peace. Together, they describe not only a pause in activity but also a profound experience of comfort and connection—a restful engagement of heart, mind and spirit.
Imagine experiencing this restful engagement during a snowy visit to Copenhagen in the heart of winter. As snowflakes softly descend on cobblestone streets, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of hygge—an intricate Danish concept embodying coziness, contentment and wellbeing through appreciating life’s simple pleasures.
Hygge, which CEO Meik Wiking of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen calls a defining feature of Danish cultural identity, evokes feelings of warmth akin to snuggling by a fire with a book or a hot chocolate.Interestingly, the translations of shabbat and nuakh evoke a similar essence—a pause imbued with comfort and a spiritual, physical and emotional experience.
While the modern self-care movement emphasises personal wellbeing, it misses a crucial point—resting in isolation is inherently limiting. Sabbath rest extends beyond individual self-care to encompass communal care, global care and earth care. Psychologists recognise the benefits of communal reflection, not only for individuals but also for entire communities.
The ancient commandment to observe the Sabbath day doesn’t merely target individuals. In Exodus 20:9, the commandment extends to the household, even including foreigners among them. In the context of ancient Israel, families comprised extended relatives, servants and livestock. Hospitality was a cultural cornerstone, making rest coordination a community-wide endeavour. The emphasis is not solely on individual rest but on collective wellbeing.
In the contemporary context, the Sabbath principle persists. To fully experience Sabbath rest, the burden of work should be lifted from the entire community. Observers of the Sabbath often refrain from shopping, entertainment or sports, recognising the importance of alleviating the burden of service from others. This act of abstention highlights the interconnectedness of rest, community and service.
Furthermore, Sabbath rest offers opportunities to serve the community. Some use this time to extend invitations, visit those who are alone or perform simple acts of kindness. This amplifies the principle that Sabbath is about more than individual practice—it’s a collective expression of God’s love.
In our current world, marred by conflicts, uncertainties and challenges, the Sabbath rest shines as a beacon of hope and peace. While it has historical roots in the creation of the world and the lives of the ancient Israelites, it’s equally relevant today. Sabbath rest isn’t merely about relationships among humans—it’s about a profound connection with God.
To shabbat (cease) is to nuakh (dwell)—to pause, cease working and rest in a deeper relationship with God. Embracing a Sabbath day allows room for God to dwell within our lives, our communities and our relationships. It’s a weekly practice of rejuvenation, reflection and reconnection.
As the self-care movement continues to gain momentum, let’s remember that the essence of rest transcends personal boundaries. Sabbath rest encompasses a holistic wellbeing that radiates outward to touch our communities, relationships and the world. It’s an enduring practice that echoes across cultures and times, inviting us to find solace, peace and communion amidst life’s challenges.
Watch this webinar for more helpful expert advice on the health benefits of the Sabbath.
The original version of this article appeared in Signs of the Times.
Feeling overwhelmed by a demanding week? Perhaps work pressures or educational commitments have left you exhausted. Maybe physical labour or parenting duties have drained your energy, and you’re left cleaning crayon masterpieces off your walls.
Evenings and weekends offer little respite as chores pile up and work continues to encroach. Finding a moment to relax usually involves mindlessly staring at screens, whether it’s a TV on your wall or a smartphone in your hand.
If this resonates, it’s time to consider embracing the concept of the Sabbath!
You may have heard of the Sabbath and dismissed it as outdated, irrelevant or challenging to adopt. But before you jump to conclusions, it’s worth exploring the historical and biblical context of the Sabbath. Contrary to common beliefs, the Sabbath is not solely for the Jewish community — it holds significance beyond that. It continues to be observed by millions of people around the world on the seventh day of the week, Saturday.
So let’s take a look at what the Bible has to say about the Sabbath. In the second book of the Bible, Exodus, we find clear guidance on honouring the Sabbath in the Ten Commandments:
“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. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy” (Exodus 20:8–11).
The idea of refraining from work can be a deterrent for many. However, the Sabbath serves as a pause button in our hectic lives. It’s a designated time to step away from the daily grind, shift focus and recalibrate. It’s a day to set aside the bustling routine of work and chores.
Admittedly, fully embracing the benefits of the Sabbath will likely require changes to our usual routines. It means stepping way from work, study, serious chores, shopping, intense sports and entertainment. It’s a shift from self-indulgence to quality time for a more meaningful purpose. But how do countless people worldwide attest to the benefits these prescribed limitations bring?
It’s important to recognise that restrictions leading to greater good aren’t exclusive to the Sabbath. Just as we avoid excessive consumption of cakes for long-term health benefits, the Sabbath promotes rest for holistic wellbeing. We restrain spending to meet essential needs, drive on one side of the road for safety, and implement environmental regulations for a healthier planet. In sports, rules are in place to ensure safety and enhance enjoyment. Imagine a sport without any rules!
An apt analogy illustrating the blessing of restraint on the Sabbath is a date night. Would your date night be successful if you arrived late, checking work emails while watching TV? It makes sense to avoid distractions that hinder connection. Similarly, the Sabbath provides guidance on dedicating a day to rest and reconnection, shifting focus from everyday distractions to God, family and nature — without guilt.
How can you find peace in an entire 24-hour period of time (from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset) without progress on work, study or chores? Wouldn’t guilt creep in for neglecting responsibilities amidst life’s chaos?
Think about public holidays — how often do you feel guilty about skipping work or school on these designated days off? The guilt isn’t overpowering. You’ve been granted a guilt-free pass to disconnect from work. Similarly, the Sabbath grants us an excuse, sanctioned by God, to shield ourselves from work distractions for 24 hours.
God designed the Sabbath for a complete experience, not just a brief pause before resuming other tasks. It’s like leaving a family lunch before dessert is served, missing out on valuable conversation. When God invites us to dedicate a whole day to Him, free from distractions, it’s an incredible offer.
Initially, disconnecting from daily responsibilities might pose a challenge. Yet, with time, you’ll appreciate the rhythm and rejuvenation the Sabbath brings — benefits that transcend the ordinary!
Understanding the true impact of the Sabbath often requires direct experience. So why not give it a try for yourself and take the Sabbath Challenge.
The original version of this article appeared in Signs of the Times.