On a weekly basis, your “work” is a big part of your life. It can also be a major cause of stress. God created us with a need for responsibility and for work to be enjoyable, not difficult.  But sin entered the world consequently changing the work experience. To go from stress to rest in our work, we need the right work perspective. Work is necessary and important, but work is not everything. We cannot fall into the trap of letting what we do become our identity, nor can we allow work to interfere with God’s command to rest. God worked six days, and then rested on the Sabbath. In doing so, He built a rhythm into the fabric of creation and we need to do the same.

 

Day 1.     Colossians 3:22-24  

Reflect: Insert “employee” for slave, and “boss” for master. What would it look like for Christians to take this text seriously? Who would benefit? What changes would result?  

Apply:  This week, in your workplace, what is one specific way you can work for the Lord? How could this reduce work-related stress if your job is drudgery with little joy?

Pray:    Lord, my daily roles and responsibilities are an opportunity to bring the aroma of Christ to people around me. May I willingly undertake every challenge enthusiastically and to the best of my ability, knowing You are with me.

 

Day 2      Ecclesiastes 2:10-11;17-26 

Reflect: How would you summarize Solomon’s words? How do you view your work? A joy? A burden? How does this text shape your understanding of the value and purpose of work? 

Apply: How does the broadly understood pursuit of “wealth” influence your approach to work? Would your current work have value even if it couldn’t provide for the things you need and desire? What would be its value? Is your identity tied to your work?

Pray:  Lord, King Solomon lamented that chasing after wealth, accomplishments, and pleasure did not give lasting satisfaction and fulfillment. Remind me of the joy and contentment I receive when You work through me to accomplish Your purpose.

 

Day 3      Ephesians 2:8-10 

Reflect: What kind of good “works” is Paul talking about? Are these works meant to be mutually exclusive from our jobs? What would change for you if you pursued the truth in verse 10?

Apply:   Take this to heart: “Your vocation is not your job; your job is a part of your vocation. Your vocation is becoming who God created you to be and doing what He created you to do.”  

Pray:     God, I pray to wholeheartedly live my life to serve You through the works You have prepared for me to do, to Your praise and glory.

 

Day 4       Exodus 31:12-17 

Reflect: What does Sabbath mean to you? Why do you think the consequence for disobeying the Sabbath command was so severe? Why is rest from our labor important to God? To us? 

Apply:  Have you ever intentionally observed the Sabbath? What effect did it have on your life and well-being? What prevents you from consistently doing so? Are you willing to try? 

Pray:     God, You model that both work and rest are part of a rich and full life. You gave us the Sabbath as a gift. Help me to make every Sabbath about You. Quiet my heart, give rest to my soul, and refocus my spirit—for true renewal comes only from You.

 

Day 5       Mark 2:23-28 

Reflect: God modeled the work-rest rhythm in the creation story. Why is it worth noting that before sin, the Sabbath was instituted? In verse 27, what does Jesus mean?

Apply:  How are you tempted to make the Sabbath all about rules instead of grasping God’s heart and purpose for giving it? What will you do and not do on the Sabbath? Why?

Pray:    Jesus, thank You that I am not bound by the Law. True rest and refreshment comes from abiding in You. Every day of the week, may I worship You in spirit and truth, and meet with other believers to worship You together.

 

 

Put It Into Practice!

Week 4: Finding Rest in My Work

Sabbath is one of God’s commandments that is often not taken seriously and is usually ignored. Rest from our work is for our benefit because God says so. Determine how you can incorporate a Sabbath rest each week. Note the benefits for you, for your work, and for your family.