God's Glory Church

“And God finished His work on the seventh day… And He rested on the seventh day from all His work that He had done.” — Genesis 2:2

My friend Susie and I sat on the coastal boulders and watched the waves. Decorated with foam combs, they crashed one by one against the stones. “I love the ocean,” said Susie, “it’s always moving, so I can afford real estate.”

Some of us feel obligated to find some excuse for taking time off from work. After all, rest is a gift from God! For six days He created the world: He created light, land, plants, animals and people. And then, on the seventh day, He rested (Gen. 1:31-2:2). In the Ten Commandments, God laid down the rules of a righteous life that is pleasing to Him (Ex. 20:3-17). Among them was the commandment to remember the Sabbath, the day of rest (vv. 8-11). In the New Testament, we see how Jesus healed all the sick in the city (Mark 1:29-34), and the next morning he went to a desert place to pray (v. 35). Our Lord worked and rested, setting us an example.

The rhythm of God’s provision through work and His proposed rest resounds around us. Sown in spring, grows in summer, bears fruit in autumn and rests in winter. Morning, afternoon, evening, and then night. God has determined both work and rest for our lives, giving us permission for both.

How do you balance work and leisure? When and how can you take a break during the day to reflect on God’s example of work and rest?

God, thank You for calling me to follow Your example in work and in peace for Your glory and my good.

Author: Eliza Morgan