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Exodus-31

Sabbath Rest: A Devotional Study on Exodus 31​

Introduction​

The story of the Israelites' journey out of Egypt is full of highs and lows. A series of miracles lifted them out of slavery, but in the aftermath, the people grumbled and complained. God's direction and laws, codified in the book of Exodus, brought order and structure to their chaotic situation. Among these laws, a special day was set aside: the Sabbath. Through this study, let's delve into the significance of the Sabbath and its implications for our spiritual growth.

Section 1: Imperialism and Craftsmanship (Exodus 31:1-5)​

Devotional Thought: Moses received two commandments from God. Firstly, God commanded that no work should be done on the Sabbath day. Secondly, God commanded that the people should honor their fathers and mothers. These commandments presented a dichotomy between the imperialistic drive of Egypt's Pharaoh and the craftsmanship of God's creation. May we choose the craftsmanship of God's rest over the imperialism of the world around us.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do the values of imperialism and craftsmanship clash in your life?
  • How can you prioritize the craftsmanship of God's rest over the imperialism of modern society?

Section 2: The Sabbath Day is the Lord's (Exodus 31:6-17)​

Devotional Thought: God's promise to bring the Israelites out of Egypt was accompanied by a command: to keep the Sabbath day holy. This commandment was a testament to the Lord's sovereignty over time and their liberation from slavery. Today, reflect on the Lord's Sabbath day and His sovereignty over your life.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you view the Sabbath day in light of the Lord's sovereignty over your life?
  • How can you honor the Sabbath as a conscious act of recognizing the Lord's sovereignty over time and your life?

Section 3: Work and Rest (Exodus 31:18)​

Devotional Thought: God blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart by heaven and earth's work. The contrast between work and rest affirms God's preference for resting over working. This invitation extends to us, as well. In the midst of our to-do lists, may we heed God's blessing and embrace the Sabbath day.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you view God's preference for rest over work in light of our modern culture's glorification of hard work?
  • How can you balance the need for rest and work in your life?

Conclusion:​

As we close this devotional study on Exodus 31, let's embrace the Sabbath day as a gift from God. The Sabbath serves as a divine appointment for us to reset, reflect, and rest in God's presence. May you find solace in the Sabbath's stillness, and may your soul be redeemed through this spiritual rest. May your soul find solace in the Sabbath's stillness, and may your soul be redeemed through this spiritual rest.