Read: Genesis 2:1-4
On the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested. (v. 2)
The word Sabbath comes from the Hebrew verb shabbat, which means “to cease or desist.” On the Sabbath, we set aside twenty-four hours to “cease” not just our work, but also our need to achieve and be productive. We stop our striving and attempt to be in control. Instead, God invites us into a space of rest, worship, renewal, and unhurried delight!
In the beginning, after God created the world, God rested on the seventh day. This may strike you as odd. God doesn’t get tired or worn-out, so why did he rest? In part to set a pattern for us as his creatures. However, there’s something more important going on here than God just providing a pattern for us to follow. As Bible scholar John Walton points out, when Genesis tells us that God rested on the seventh day, it means God sat down on his throne as the sovereign King of all creation. In the ancient world, when a person in authority “rests,” it means they assume their rightful rule and govern their kingdom with power and glory.
This reality—that God is resting on his throne and rules over all of creation and history—sets our hearts free to truly rest in him. We can have confidence, no matter how chaotic our world seems and whatever uncertainty we face, that our God reigns. And his reign endures forever!
As you pray, give God thanks that he is the sovereign King who rules the world with truth and grace.
About the Author
Brian Keepers has been an ordained pastor in the Reformed Church in America for 23 years. He is currently serving as the lead pastor of Trinity Reformed Church in Orange City, Iowa. Brian is married to Tammy, and they have two daughters and a granddaughter.
