The Importance of Rest: Why Christians Should Observe the Sabbath
- Wired for Christ
- Feb 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 3
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Life feels overwhelming these days.
Between wars, high grocery bills, road rage, and endless personal responsibilities—like work, family, and ministry—it is no wonder so many of us feel stressed out and exhausted.
The truth is, the world feels more frantic now than it did 20 years ago. That is where the Sabbath comes in. Stick with me here...
While Jesus is our ultimate rest (Matthew 11:28-30; Hebrews 4:9-11), the Sabbath—a day set aside for physical rest and worship—is a gift God gave us for our good.
When God commanded the Sabbath in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11), it was not to weigh us down but to bless us. Even God Himself rested on the seventh day of creation to set an example (Genesis 2:2-3).
He knows we need rest—physically and spiritually. And in today’s always-on, connected world, His wisdom still holds: we need to pause, reflect, and focus on Him.
Jesus made it clear that the Sabbath is for our benefit.
As a Jew, Jesus observed the Sabbath (Luke 4:16), and He reminded us of its purpose:
“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” —Mark 2:27
While the New Testament church did not require Gentile believers to keep the Sabbath as a law (Acts 15:28-29), it does not mean we should ignore it. It is not about legalism; it is about experiencing the peace and rest God wants for us, spiritually and physically.
In our productivity-obsessed culture, it is easy to lose sight of God’s grace. Observing the Sabbath is not about following a rule—it is about stepping away from the chaos and reconnecting with God.
Imagine taking Saturday to rest...
And think about God’s goodness, spend time in prayer and studying the Bible, enjoy time with loved ones, read a book, and go on a long walk with a heart of thanksgiving for what God has done.
Taking this time reminds us that God is in control. He knew what life in the 21st century would look like, with all its challenges (Isaiah 46:9-10). The Sabbath is His gift to help us slow down and recharge.
What about busy parents with active children?
As a father of three adult children who were very busy during their school years, I understand how our society schedules events with little regard for God's designated day of rest. To those busy parents, I encourage you to make the most of any Saturdays off and observe the blessed day of rest that God has given us.
We are saved by grace through faith
Not by works (Galatians 3:24; Ephesians 2:8-9). However, observing principles of the law—like setting aside a day of rest to focus on God—flows from the salvation we have received.
Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. —Matthew 5:17
God rested after creating the world (Genesis 2:2-3), and Jesus often took time away to pray (Luke 5:16). If God modeled rest, then we should too.
In a world that never stops, the Sabbath invites us to pause, reflect, and remember who holds it all together.
This week, consider setting aside Saturday for rest, reflection, and worship of God.
Turn off the distractions, spend time with God, and enjoy His gift of peace. Start small and see how it changes your perspective and renews your spirit.
Remember the words of Christ:
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
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