Embracing Sabbath: Trusting God's Goodness and Rest
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on the importance of obedience and the blessings that come from it. We celebrated the generosity of our congregation, which has already exceeded our budget for the month of July. This is a testament to God's faithfulness and our collective obedience. We also discussed upcoming events, including a nursery shower and our VBS program, which are opportunities for us to invest in the next generation.
The core of today's message centered on the concept of Sabbath and its role in our spiritual lives. We explored the creation story in Genesis, emphasizing that Sabbath is not just a day of rest but a holy habit that brings transformation. The creation narrative teaches us that God rested not because He was tired, but because His work was complete and good. This rest is an invitation for us to trust in God's sufficiency and to find our identity in Him, not in our productivity.
We delved into the idea that Sabbath is a new beginning, a time to renew and rest, knowing that God is enough. This rest allows us to see the goodness in creation and to trust in God's ongoing story. The Israelites, who were once slaves in Egypt, had to learn to trust God and not their own efforts. Similarly, we are invited to rest in God's goodness and to trust that He is enough.
We also discussed the importance of not getting caught up in the rules of Sabbath but understanding its purpose. Jesus taught that Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. It's a time to rest, play, and know that God loves us. This rest is not an excuse for laziness but a holy practice that helps us become more like Jesus.
In conclusion, we are called to commit to Sabbath rest, to trust in God's story, and to allow His holiness to fill our lives. This commitment will transform us, making us more like Jesus and less focused on our own efforts.
### Key Takeaways
1. Obedience and Generosity: Our congregation's generosity this month is a testament to God's faithfulness and our collective obedience. When we give out of obedience, not just generosity, we align ourselves with God's will and experience His blessings. This principle applies not just to financial giving but to all areas of our lives. [27:45]
2. Sabbath as a New Beginning: Sabbath is a consistent new beginning in our lives, offering us the opportunity to renew, rest, and play. It reminds us that our identity is found in who we are in God, not in what we do. This rest is a holy habit that brings transformation and aligns us with God's ongoing creation. [57:09]
3. The Goodness of Creation: The creation story repeatedly emphasizes that God's creation is good. This goodness invites us to rest in God's sufficiency and to see the world through His eyes. When we fail to rest, we miss out on experiencing the fullness of God's goodness and abundance. [01:06:38]
4. Trusting God's Story: The Israelites had to learn to trust God and not their own efforts. Similarly, we are invited to trust in God's ongoing story and to rest in His sufficiency. This trust allows us to see that we are enough because God is enough, freeing us from the need to constantly produce and achieve. [01:11:29]
5. Sabbath and Holiness: Jesus taught that Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. This rest is not about following rules but about finding rest in Christ and trusting Him for the results. By committing to Sabbath rest, we allow God's holiness to fill our lives, transforming us to be more like Jesus. [01:16:30]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[27:45] - Encouragement on Giving
[28:26] - Nursery Shower Announcement
[29:55] - New Life and Nursery Renovation
[31:05] - Celebrating New Families
[32:38] - Prayer for Families
[34:14] - Overwhelmed by God's Goodness
[35:16] - Prayer for Children and Ministries
[36:35] - Blessing and Comfort for Families
[38:05] - Invitation to Give
[43:15] - Upcoming Events and VBS
[44:39] - Introduction to Holiness Series
[46:18] - Definition of Holiness
[47:49] - Experiencing Holiness through Sabbath
[49:19] - Surprising Aspects of Sabbath
[50:39] - Genesis Creation Story
[55:09] - Insights from Genesis
[57:09] - Sabbath as a New Beginning
[01:06:38] - The Goodness of Creation
[01:11:29] - Trusting God's Story
[01:16:30] - Jesus on Sabbath
[01:19:43] - Holiness and Transformation
[01:30:32] - Max Lucado's "You Are Special"
[01:34:14] - Commitment to Sabbath Rest
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 2:1-3 (NLT)
> "So the creation of the heavens and the earth and everything in them was completed. On the seventh day, God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation."
2. Mark 2:27-28 (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. So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath.'"
3. Exodus 20:8-11 (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. 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."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Genesis 2:1-3, why did God rest on the seventh day?
2. What does Jesus say about the purpose of the Sabbath in Mark 2:27-28?
3. In Exodus 20:8-11, what reasons are given for observing the Sabbath day?
4. How did the sermon describe the significance of Sabbath rest in our spiritual lives? [49:19]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that God rested on the seventh day even though He was not tired? How does this shape our understanding of Sabbath? [49:19]
2. How does Jesus' teaching in Mark 2:27-28 challenge the traditional views of Sabbath observance?
3. What does the creation story in Genesis teach us about the relationship between work and rest? [50:39]
4. How can the practice of Sabbath rest transform our identity and trust in God, according to the sermon? [57:09]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current practice of Sabbath rest. How often do you intentionally set aside time to rest and renew? What changes can you make to better observe Sabbath? [57:09]
2. The sermon emphasized that our identity is found in who we are in God, not in what we do. How can you remind yourself of this truth in your daily life? [01:00:14]
3. Jesus taught that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. How can you apply this teaching to avoid legalism in your observance of Sabbath? [01:16:30]
4. The sermon mentioned that failing to rest means missing out on experiencing the fullness of God's goodness. What practical steps can you take to ensure you are experiencing God's goodness through rest? [01:06:38]
5. How can you incorporate the idea of "rest, play, no work, God loves us" into your weekly routine to better align with the concept of Sabbath rest? [01:04:48]
6. The Israelites had to learn to trust God and not their own efforts. In what areas of your life do you need to trust God's sufficiency more and rely less on your own efforts? [01:11:29]
7. The sermon concluded with a call to commit to Sabbath rest. What specific commitment can you make this week to honor the Sabbath and allow God's holiness to fill your life? [01:34:14]
Devotional
Day 1: Obedience and Generosity
Our congregation's generosity this month is a testament to God's faithfulness and our collective obedience. When we give out of obedience, not just generosity, we align ourselves with God's will and experience His blessings. This principle applies not just to financial giving but to all areas of our lives. Obedience to God is a form of worship that acknowledges His sovereignty and goodness. It is through this obedience that we open ourselves up to the blessings He has in store for us. Our giving, whether it be time, resources, or love, is a reflection of our trust in God's provision and our commitment to His kingdom. [27:45]
Deuteronomy 28:1-2 (ESV): "And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God."
Reflection: Think of a specific area in your life where you can practice obedience to God today. How can you align your actions with His will and trust in His provision?
Day 2: Sabbath as a New Beginning
Sabbath is a consistent new beginning in our lives, offering us the opportunity to renew, rest, and play. It reminds us that our identity is found in who we are in God, not in what we do. This rest is a holy habit that brings transformation and aligns us with God's ongoing creation. The Sabbath is a time to step back from our daily routines and recognize that our worth is not tied to our productivity. It is a divine invitation to experience God's presence and to be refreshed in His love. By observing the Sabbath, we acknowledge that God is the ultimate provider and sustainer of our lives. [57:09]
Isaiah 58:13-14 (ESV): "If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight and the holy day of the Lord honorable; if you honor it, not going your own ways, or seeking your own pleasure, or talking idly; then you shall take delight in the Lord, and I will make you ride on the heights of the earth; I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken."
Reflection: How can you intentionally set aside time this week to observe the Sabbath? What activities or practices will help you rest and renew in God's presence?
Day 3: The Goodness of Creation
The creation story repeatedly emphasizes that God's creation is good. This goodness invites us to rest in God's sufficiency and to see the world through His eyes. When we fail to rest, we miss out on experiencing the fullness of God's goodness and abundance. Recognizing the goodness of creation helps us to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around us. It also reminds us that God is the source of all that is good and that His creation reflects His character. By taking time to rest and reflect on God's creation, we can deepen our understanding of His love and care for us. [01:06:38]
Psalm 104:24-25 (ESV): "O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Here is the sea, great and wide, which teems with creatures innumerable, living things both small and great."
Reflection: Take a moment to observe the beauty of God's creation around you. How does recognizing the goodness of creation help you to trust in God's sufficiency and care?
Day 4: Trusting God's Story
The Israelites had to learn to trust God and not their own efforts. Similarly, we are invited to trust in God's ongoing story and to rest in His sufficiency. This trust allows us to see that we are enough because God is enough, freeing us from the need to constantly produce and achieve. Trusting in God's story means believing that He is in control and that His plans for us are good. It requires us to let go of our own striving and to rest in the assurance that God is working all things for our good. By trusting in God's story, we can find peace and contentment in His presence. [01:11:29]
Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Reflection: Reflect on a situation in your life where you are struggling to trust God. How can you surrender this situation to Him and rest in His sufficiency?
Day 5: Sabbath and Holiness
Jesus taught that Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. This rest is not about following rules but about finding rest in Christ and trusting Him for the results. By committing to Sabbath rest, we allow God's holiness to fill our lives, transforming us to be more like Jesus. The Sabbath is a gift from God that allows us to experience His presence and to be renewed in His love. It is a time to set aside our own efforts and to trust in God's provision and care. By observing the Sabbath, we can grow in our relationship with God and become more like Jesus in our daily lives. [01:16:30]
Hebrews 4:9-10 (ESV): "So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his."
Reflection: How can you make Sabbath rest a regular practice in your life? What steps can you take to ensure that you are setting aside time to rest and be renewed in God's presence?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We rest, we play, no work, God loves us. We rest, we play, no work, God loves us. Right? He says, that's just our pattern. And it's just this offering us opportunities for these new beginnings to experience his creation." [01:05:00] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "In Sabbath, we discover that your identity is found in who you are, not in what you do. And the new day begins in the evening, according to God's economy. We are loved by God because of who you are, not because of what you do." [01:04:48] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Do we have a scarcity mindset or an abundance mindset? Do we just feel like we have less and less? Therefore I have to produce more. I have to do more. And if I run, I have to do more. I have to do more. I have to do more. rest then then i i just i'm not going to have enough whatever that enough is you fill in the blank but the reality is is when we see the goodness of god and all that he created and all of his abundance and all that he provides it helps me to rest knowing that it's not about me being enough he's enough does that make sense like god is enough god is enough for you" [01:09:49] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Sabbath is a new beginning. It's a consistent new beginning in our lives. And so, it gives us the opportunity to continue to be co-creators with God. And so, at the end of the story of creation, chapter 2, verses 3 and 4, we learn that God rested, right? That He rested. Now, I'm convinced He didn't rest because He was tired. Like, whoo, boy, am I wiped out. My feet are so sore. I need to kind of put them up, you know. That's not what the emphasis of this was, right? That the emphasis for God resting is the fact that it was like, oh, that's good. This is complete. I've done what needs to be done. It's completed." [58:31] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The sabbath was made to meet the needs of the people of people not people to meet the requirements of sabbath so the son of man is lord even over the sabbath friends what is jesus saying he's saying that it's not about the rules stop focusing on the rules if you're asking the question do i do sabbath right i think i'm doing it wrong you probably are doing it wrong because you're asking that question rest in him change your pattern know that he is good it's not about the rules it's finding rest in christ it's trusting in jesus for the results the sabbath is made for you to enjoy it to trust the story of god in your life not about the rules that you have to follow" [01:17:58] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Holiness then simply put is being more and more like Jesus right to help us move away from being intimidated and with and scared if you will of this word holiness into something that that we would be willing to strive for it says i i think that's something that that i want to need to be i want to be more like jesus but if i were to ask you in this in the similar term that and asked and talked about the fact well do you want to be holy and and live a holy life it's like oh that just seems like a little much and and little ideas you know and and i just think that's a i think that's a lie from the enemy for one that that we kind of get wrapped up in that but i think it's some misinformation too and that's what i'm trying to clear up in this series to give us some footing give us a foundation not only for us right now but for the rest of your life that we can say no i want to strive after being a holy person what does that mean what does that mean dave i just want i just want to be more and more like jesus i want him i want more of him and less of me" [47:49] (68 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Sabbath is a new beginning. It's a consistent new beginning in our lives. And so, it gives us the opportunity to continue to be co-creators with God. And so, at the end of the story of creation, chapter 2, verses 3 and 4, we learn that God rested, right? That He rested. Now, I'm convinced He didn't rest because He was tired. Like, whoo, boy, am I wiped out. My feet are so sore. I need to kind of put them up, you know. That's not what the emphasis of this was, right? That the emphasis for God resting is the fact that it was like, oh, that's good. This is complete. I've done what needs to be done. It's completed. But here's the thing, that if you were listening to the story, which I know you were, you begin to see, that God kind of, He infused within creation this ability for creation to continue to create. So, creating continually happens." [58:31] (69 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Sabbath is a new beginning. It's a consistent new beginning in our lives. And so, it gives us the opportunity to continue to be co-creators with God. And so, at the end of the story of creation, chapter 2, verses 3 and 4, we learn that God rested, right? That He rested. Now, I'm convinced He didn't rest because He was tired. Like, whoo, boy, am I wiped out. My feet are so sore. I need to kind of put them up, you know. That's not what the emphasis of this was, right? That the emphasis for God resting is the fact that it was like, oh, that's good. This is complete. I've done what needs to be done. It's completed. But here's the thing, that if you were listening to the story, which I know you were, you begin to see, that God kind of, He infused within creation this ability for creation to continue to create. So, creating continually happens." [58:31] (69 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Do you trust him do you trust him that that you can literally stop and say you know what i don't have to produce i don't have to do all this stuff i don't have to impress everybody else i don't have to compare myself to somebody i don't have to do i can just be enough because god says i'm enough that's what we learn in sabbath rest that i can trust him follow his very words i can be obedient and allow him to fill me with his holiness because i am holy because he is holy and his holiness is enough i don't have to try to work to be holy i don't have to try to work to try to get more spiritual i don't i just want to be obedient to what god's word says i'm going to rest in him i'm going to learn what his word teaches me and follow and be obedient to that and by the way sabbath isn't an excuse to be lazy sabbath is an excuse to be because that's what's in our mind and when we think those things we think it because we feel like we have to produce something but god says no no you're good enough you don't have to produce anything" [01:14:44] (89 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Sabbath is a new beginning. It's a consistent new beginning in our lives. And so, it gives us the opportunity to continue to be co-creators with God. And so, at the end of the story of creation, chapter 2, verses 3 and 4, we learn that God rested, right? That He rested. Now, I'm convinced He didn't rest because He was tired. Like, whoo, boy, am I wiped out. My feet are so sore. I need to kind of put them up, you know. That's not what the emphasis of this was, right? That the emphasis for God resting is the fact that it was like, oh, that's good. This is complete. I've done what needs to be done. It's completed. But here's the thing, that if you were listening to the story, which I know you were, you begin to see, that God kind of, He infused within creation this ability for creation to continue to create. So, creating continually happens." [58:31] (69 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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