Releasing Busyness
WEEK 3
SCRIPTURE
Exodus 20:8-11
“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.
“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.
DEVOTIONAL
In today’s fast-paced world, busyness is often seen as a badge of honor. The more we do, the more we feel accomplished and valued. But God’s command to observe the Sabbath challenges this mindset. He calls us to step away from work and embrace rest—not as an optional luxury, but as a holy practice.
Reflecting on the Sabbath reminds us that God is our ultimate provider. It is an act of trust to set aside our tasks, believing that He will meet our needs. Yet, it can be difficult to lay aside our work and worries. Why? Because we often tie our worth to our productivity, or we fear falling behind if we pause.
God’s command to rest isn’t about restriction; it’s about blessing. It’s a gift that refreshes our bodies, renews our minds, and refocuses our hearts on Him. By resting, we acknowledge that it is God who sustains us—not our endless striving.
Reflecting on the Sabbath reminds us that God is our ultimate provider. It is an act of trust to set aside our tasks, believing that He will meet our needs. Yet, it can be difficult to lay aside our work and worries. Why? Because we often tie our worth to our productivity, or we fear falling behind if we pause.
God’s command to rest isn’t about restriction; it’s about blessing. It’s a gift that refreshes our bodies, renews our minds, and refocuses our hearts on Him. By resting, we acknowledge that it is God who sustains us—not our endless striving.
TAKE A MOMENT TO REFLECT & DISCUSS:
- Why is it hard to stop working or worrying?
- How can practicing rest help us draw closer to God?
- What changes can you make to honor the Sabbath and embrace rest?
This week, intentionally plan a time to rest as a family. Let go of the pressure to be productive and instead spend time in worship, reflection, and togetherness. Use this time to focus on God’s goodness and His provision.
PRAYER
Lord,
As we lay down our obligations today, we ask for Your peace to fill our hearts. Help us to trust that You are in control, and that we don’t need to carry the weight of our worries. We give You our burdens, knowing that You will provide for all our needs. Thank You for the gift of rest. May we find rest not just in moments, but in the knowledge that You are our refuge and strength.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
As we lay down our obligations today, we ask for Your peace to fill our hearts. Help us to trust that You are in control, and that we don’t need to carry the weight of our worries. We give You our burdens, knowing that You will provide for all our needs. Thank You for the gift of rest. May we find rest not just in moments, but in the knowledge that You are our refuge and strength.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
SONG
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