Remember the Sabbath, Keep It Holy

Remember the Sabbath, Keep It Holy

The Sabbath is more than a mere day off; it is a divine gift, a holy commandment, and a sacred opportunity to connect with God in a deeply intimate way.

Consider the inspiring story of Michael, a dedicated businessman in the picturesque coastal town of Agnes Water, Queensland. Michael owns the renowned 1770 Getaway Villas, a peaceful retreat that also featured the popular 1770 Getaway Café until 2023. In the hospitality industry, Saturdays are often the most profitable days, and closing on such a day seemed unthinkable. Yet, Michael made the bold decision to remember the Sabbath to keep it holy, closing his reception, halting operations at the café, and ceasing room service for guests from sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday. This decision was guided by his deep conviction to obey the fourth commandment.

Friends and competitors alike warned him against this move, predicting financial disaster and questioning the wisdom of turning away business during the busiest day of the week. But Michael held firm, believing that honouring God was worth more than any potential profits.

Over time, the results were remarkable. Not only did Michael’s business survive, but it also thrived. Guests admired his integrity and the peaceful environment his faith-infused practices created. Today, 1770 Getaway Villas is known for its excellent service and remains a favourite among visitors, earning top reviews and loyal patrons.

Michael’s unwavering faith and commitment to keeping the Sabbath holy illustrate the abundant blessings that come from prioritising God’s commandments over worldly gain. His story is a testament to the principle that when we honour God, He honours us in return.

This article explores the theological foundations and practical applications of keeping the Sabbath holy, demonstrating its relevance in our modern, fast-paced world and the profound blessings it brings to those who observe it.

The Meaning of Holiness and the Sabbath’s Foundation

Understanding Holiness

Holiness is a central theme throughout the Bible, representing a state of being set apart for God’s purposes. In Exodus 20:8–11, the fourth commandment calls us to,

remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.

This holiness is not something we bestow upon the day; rather, it is a sanctity declared by God Himself. Just as certain objects, places, and even people were consecrated for divine purposes in Scripture, the Sabbath is a segment of time that God has designated as sacred.

The concept of holiness extends to other areas as well. For example, the tithe is considered holy (Leviticus 27:30), a portion of our increase set apart for God. Marriage is also deemed holy, a sacred covenant between two people before God. In each case, holiness involves dedication, separation from the ordinary, and a focus on the divine.

The Sabbath Instituted at Creation

The origin of the Sabbath traces back to the very beginning of human history. In Genesis 2:1–3, after six days of creation, God rested on the seventh day. This rest was not due to fatigue but served as an example and a blessing for humanity. God sanctified the seventh day, setting it apart as a memorial of His creative work. This act established the Sabbath as a universal institution, predating any nation or religious group.

By resting on the seventh day, God established a rhythm for human life—a balance between work and rest, labour and reflection. This pattern is woven into the fabric of creation itself. The weekly cycle culminates in the Sabbath, providing a regular opportunity to step back from our endeavours and acknowledge God’s sovereignty and provision.

The Sabbath for All Humanity

Some argue that the Sabbath was intended only for the Israelites, but Scripture indicates otherwise. In Mark 2:27, Jesus stated,

The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.

The Greek word used for “man” is “anthropos,” meaning humanity. This underscores that the Sabbath was established for the benefit of all people, not just a specific group.

Furthermore, Isaiah 56:6–7 speaks of foreigners who join themselves to the Lord, embracing His covenant and keeping the Sabbath. God promises to bring them to His holy mountain and make them joyful in His house of prayer. This inclusivity highlights the Sabbath’s universal significance.

An Everlasting Covenant

The Sabbath holds a unique place among the Ten Commandments. It is the only commandment that begins with “Remember,” suggesting that God anticipated humanity’s tendency to forget its importance. The commandment provides detailed instructions on how to observe the Sabbath, emphasising rest and refraining from work—not just for oneself but also for family members, servants, and even animals.

Isaiah 66:22–23 prophesies that from one Sabbath to another,

all flesh shall come to worship before Me.

This passage of scripture indicates that Sabbath observance will continue in the new heavens and the new earth. This eternal aspect underscores the Sabbath’s enduring relevance and sanctity.

How to Keep the Sabbath Holy

Preparation for the Sabbath

Observing the Sabbath begins long before the day arrives. Preparation is key to fully entering into the rest and sanctity of the Sabbath. Just as one would prepare for a significant event or the arrival of a treasured guest, we should approach the Sabbath with intentionality.

Practical Steps for Preparation:

• Complete Work Ahead of Time: Endeavour to finish professional duties, household chores, and errands before sunset on Friday. This may require adjusting schedules or prioritising tasks earlier in the week.

• Prepare Meals in Advance: Cooking can be time-consuming and labour-intensive. By preparing meals ahead of time, we can reduce the need for work on the Sabbath and free ourselves to focus on spiritual matters.

• Set the Atmosphere: Clean and organise the home to create a peaceful environment. Some families set aside special dishes or decorations to signify the sacredness of the day.

• Spiritual Readiness: Spend time in prayer and reflection as the Sabbath approaches, setting your heart and mind on things above.

An illustrative example comes from the Jewish tradition of “Shabbat Shalom,” where families gather on Friday evening to welcome the Sabbath with prayers, songs, and a special meal. This practice sets a tone of reverence and joy, marking the transition from the ordinary to the sacred.

Engaging in Sabbath Activities

The Sabbath offers a unique opportunity to engage in activities that foster spiritual growth and community.

1. Worship and Fellowship:

Corporate worship is often a central experience of Sabbath observance. Gathering with fellow believers allows us to collectively honour God, receive guidance from His Word, and encourage one another. Hebrews 10:24–25 urges us not to forsake assembling together but to spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

Worship services often include singing, prayer, scripture reading, and preaching. Participating actively in these elements enriches our spiritual experience. It’s also a time to build relationships within a faith community, offering support and companionship.

2. Rest and Reflection:

The Sabbath is a time to cease from labour and the pursuit of personal gain. This rest is not merely physical but also mental and emotional. By stepping away from the busyness of life, we create space to hear God’s voice more clearly.

Enjoying Nature

Nature walks and outdoor activities can deepen our appreciation for God’s creation. Psalm 19:1 declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Observing the beauty of the natural world can inspire worship and gratitude.

Personal Study and Meditation

Dedicating time to read and study the Bible allows us to delve deeper into God’s Word. Meditation on scripture can lead to personal revelations and a stronger connection with God.

3. Acts of Kindness and Service:

Jesus modeled compassionate service on the Sabbath. In Matthew 12:12, He stated, “Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Engaging in acts of kindness aligns with the spirit of the day.

Practical Ways to Serve

• Visit the Sick or Elderly: Offering companionship and assistance to those who are isolated or unwell.

• Encourage the Lonely: Reaching out to individuals who may need emotional or spiritual support.

• Community Outreach: Participating in ministry activities that share God’s love with others.

Guarding the Edges of the Sabbath

Maintaining the sanctity of the Sabbath requires vigilance against encroachments by secular activities.

Setting Boundaries

Clearly define when the Sabbath begins and ends, traditionally from sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday. Communicate these boundaries to family members and, if necessary, employers or colleagues.

Avoiding Secular Distractions

Refrain from engaging in commercial transactions, entertainment that is not spiritually edifying, and conversations that detract from the day’s purpose.

Fostering a Sacred Atmosphere

Encourage discussions and activities that honour God. Families can share testimonies, discuss spiritual topics, or engage in worshipful music.

An example of guarding the Sabbath can be seen in the story of Nehemiah, who took decisive action to prevent commerce on the Sabbath in Jerusalem (Nehemiah 13:15–22). His commitment underscores the importance of protecting the day’s holiness.

A Blessings when we Remember the Holy Sabbath Day

A Sign of Faithfulness

Observing the Sabbath is a tangible expression of our faithfulness to God. It serves as a covenant sign between God and His people, symbolising our commitment to His commandments and our trust in His provision.

Karimi, a skilled chef and devoted Christian, faced a defining moment in her career while working at the Coopers Alehouse in Wallaroo, South Australia. During Bible studies with her pastor, she became deeply convicted about honoring the Sabbath by ceasing from labor. However, as a chef, her work schedule required her to work every Saturday, creating a significant conflict with her newfound commitment to keeping the Sabbath holy.

After much prayer and reflection, Karimi approached her supervisor with a bold decision: she would resign if required to work on the Sabbath. Though uncertain about what her future held, she trusted God to guide her. Exploring various opportunities, Karimi eventually decided to open her own food van, aptly named Karimi’s Kitchen, which she operates from the front yard of her home in the small rural town of Alford, South Australia—a community with just 150 residents.

Despite skeptics who doubted her ability to succeed in such a tiny town, Karimi’s desire to remember the holy sabbath day, and her perseverance paid off. Not only has she replaced her previous income, but she has also grown her business to the point of employing others. More than just a food business, Karimi’s Kitchen has become a ministry. Karimi takes every opportunity to witness, pray with her customers, and engage in meaningful conversations about her faith.

At the time of writing, Karimi’s Kitchen boasts over 130 Google reviews, most of them five stars. A quick glance at the comments reveals glowing praise for not only her delicious food but also her remarkable faith and the warmth of her Christian witness. Karimi’s story is a powerful testament to the blessings that follow when we choose to honor God and trust Him with our lives.

Karimi's experience illustrates how honouring the Sabbath can serve as a witness to others and strengthen our own faith. God’s promise in Exodus 31:13 is clear:

“Surely my Sabbaths you shall keep, for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations.”

Rest for the Soul

In today’s fast-paced society, stress and burnout are common ailments. The Sabbath provides much-needed respite, offering rest for both body and soul. Jesus invites us in Matthew 11:28,

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

This rest is more than physical cessation from work; it’s an opportunity to recharge spiritually. By focusing on God, we find peace that transcends understanding (Philippians 4:7). The Sabbath becomes a weekly oasis in the desert of busyness.

Preparation for Future Trials

Observing the Sabbath now strengthens our faith for future challenges. The Book of Revelation highlights the importance of worship and obedience in the end times. Revelation 14:12 describes the saints as those “who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.”

By faithfully keeping the Sabbath, we build spiritual resilience. Historical figures like Eric Liddell, the Olympic runner who refused to compete on the Sabbath, demonstrate how honoring God’s commandments can lead to unexpected blessings and opportunities to glorify Him.

Avoiding Extremes in Sabbath Observance

Legalism vs. Liberty

Balancing the observance of the Sabbath involves avoiding two extremes: legalism and negligence.

Legalism

This approach burdens the Sabbath with excessive rules and restrictions, turning it into a joyless obligation. The Pharisees in Jesus’ time exemplified this attitude, criticising Him for healing on the Sabbath (Mark 3:1–6). Jesus countered their legalism by emphasising mercy and the true intent of the law.

Negligence

On the other hand, treating the Sabbath casually undermines its sanctity. Engaging in secular work or entertainment shifts focus away from God. Isaiah 58:13 warns against

doing your own pleasure on My holy day.

Embracing the Sabbath as a Delight

The key is to embrace the Sabbath as a delight, as Isaiah 58:13–14 encourages. By focusing on our relationship with God, we naturally align our activities and attitudes with His purposes. The Sabbath becomes not a burden but a source of joy and spiritual enrichment.

Teaching Children to Delight in the Sabbath

Instilling a love for the Sabbath in children lays a foundation for lifelong faithfulness. As a father myself, often so caught up in the busyness of life, the Sabbath has been a great blessing to me as a time to pause and spend with God and enjoy time with family.

Engaging Activities for Children

Interactive Bible Stories

Use storytelling, puppetry, or dramatisations to make Bible narratives come alive.

Nature Exploration

Take walks to observe plants, animals, and natural phenomena, linking them to lessons about God’s creation.

Creative Projects

Encourage drawing, crafting, or writing projects that reflect spiritual themes.

Modelling Reverence and Joy

Children learn by example. When parents approach the Sabbath with enthusiasm and reverence, children are more likely to adopt the same attitude.

Family Worship

Set aside time for family devotions, singing hymns, and sharing insights from Scripture.

Acts of Service

Involve children in service projects appropriate for their age, such as making cards for the sick or helping prepare food for someone in need.

Building Positive Memories

Creating traditions and special moments associated with the Sabbath helps children look forward to the day.

Special Meals

Prepare favourite dishes or involve children in making simple recipes.

Sabbath Rituals

Light candles, say blessings, or engage in other practices that signal the uniqueness of the day.

An example of successful Sabbath teaching comes from the Johnson family. Each Friday evening, they gather to share highlights from the week and express gratitude. They then enjoy a special meal and play a Bible-themed game. On Sabbath afternoons, they visit a local park for a nature scavenger hunt, looking for items that remind them of God’s promises. These activities make the Sabbath meaningful and enjoyable for the whole family.

Conclusion

The Sabbath is a divine invitation to step away from the ordinary and enter into sacred time with our Creator. It offers rest, renewal, and a deeper connection with God. By remembering the Sabbath and keeping it holy, we align ourselves with God’s design for our lives, experience His blessings, and prepare for eternity.

In a world filled with distractions and demands, the Sabbath stands as a beacon of hope and peace. It reminds us that we are not defined by our work or achievements but by our relationship with God. Let us seize this weekly opportunity to honor Him, delight in His presence, and extend His love to others.

As the Lord promises in Isaiah 58:14, “Then you shall delight yourself in the Lord; and I will cause you to ride on the high hills of the earth.” May we embrace the Sabbath as a cherished gift, keeping it holy as a testament to our faith and devotion.