Be Ye Crucified With Christ

As believers, we often talk about the importance of living a life that honors God. But what does that really mean? How do we live a life that is truly surrendered to Christ? In Galatians 2:20, the apostle Paul writes, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." This verse holds the key to understanding what it means to live a life that is truly crucified with Christ.

The Call to Crucifixion

When Paul says, "I have been crucified with Christ," he is not talking about a physical crucifixion. Rather, he is talking about a spiritual one. He is saying that he has died to his old self and is now alive in Christ. This is a call that is extended to all believers. We are called to die to our old selves and to live a new life in Christ.

The Old Self

So, what does it mean to die to our old selves? It means that we must let go of our old way of living. We must let go of our sinful habits and our selfish desires. We must let go of our need to control and our need to be in charge. We must die to our old self and be born again in Christ. The Bible says:

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV)

The New Self

When we die to our old self, we are born again in Christ. We are given a new heart and a new spirit. We are given a new way of living. We are no longer controlled by our sinful nature, but rather by the Spirit of God. We are no longer living for ourselves, but rather for Christ. According to Apostle Paul:

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. (Romans 6:3,4 KJV)

Baptism is symbolizing the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. That means we are born again in spirit.

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (John 3:3 KJV)

A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 36:26 KJV)

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. (Psalms 51:10 KJV) 

Crucified with Christ

So, what does it mean to be crucified with Christ? It means that we have died to our old self and are now alive in Christ. It means that we have been united with Christ in his death and resurrection. It means that we have been given a new life, a life that is centered on Christ and lived for his glory. The main text for today is greatly emphasizes of what all these mean:

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20 KJV)

1  If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2  Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3  For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4  When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. 

10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: (Colossians 3:1-4; 10KJV)

The Implications of Being Crucified with Christ

Being crucified with Christ has several implications for our lives. First, it means that we are no longer in control. We are no longer the masters of our own destiny. Rather, we are under the control of the Spirit of God. Second, it means that we are no longer living for ourselves. We are no longer seeking to fulfill our own desires and ambitions. Rather, we are living for Christ and seeking to fulfill his desires and ambitions.

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 11  But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. (Romans 8:1,9,11 KJV)

The Benefits of Being Crucified with Christ

Being crucified with Christ also has several benefits. First, it means that we have been given a new life. We have been born again in Christ and have been given a new heart and a new spirit. Second, it means that we have been forgiven of our sins. We have been washed clean by the blood of Christ and have been declared righteous in his sight. Third, it means that we have been given a new purpose. We are no longer living for ourselves, but rather for Christ.

For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. (Romans 14:8 KJV)

The Challenge of Being Crucified with Christ

Being crucified with Christ is not easy. It requires us to die to our old self and to live a new life in Christ. It requires us to let go of our sinful habits and our selfish desires. It requires us to be willing to suffer and to sacrifice for the sake of Christ. But it is a challenge that is worth accepting.

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Galatians 3:27; Ephesians 4:22-24 KJV)

The Reward of Being Crucified with Christ

The reward of being crucified with Christ is great. We have been given a new life, a life that is centered on Christ and lived for his glory. We have been forgiven of our sins and have been declared righteous in his sight. We have been given a new purpose, a purpose that is centered on serving Christ and advancing his kingdom.

He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. (Revelation 3:5 KJV)

Living Out Our Faith

So, how do we live out our faith in a way that reflects our crucifixion with Christ? First, we must be willing to die to our old self. We must be willing to let go of our sinful habits and our selfish desires. Second, we must be willing to live a new life in Christ. We must be willing to be controlled by the Spirit of God and to live for his glory. (See John 3:3-5, Ezekiel 36:26)

Surrendering to God's Will

Surrendering to God's will is not always easy. It requires us to let go of our own desires and ambitions and to trust in God's sovereignty. But it is a necessary part of living a life that is crucified with Christ. But if you loved God with all your heart and all your mind it is very easy for you.

Trusting in God's Sovereignty

Trusting in God's sovereignty is not always easy. It requires us to have faith that God is in control, even when things don't make sense. But it is a necessary part of living a life that is crucified with Christ. Again if you loved God with all your heart and all your mind it is very easy for you.

Living a Life of Obedience

Living a life of obedience is not always easy. It requires us to be willing to do what God says, even when it's hard. But it is a necessary part of living a life that is crucified with Christ. I say it to you again. If you loved God with all your heart and all your mind these things are very easy for you. The Bible says:

If ye love me, keep my commandments. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. (John 15:15; 15:14 KJV)

The Power of the Holy Spirit

The power of the Holy Spirit is essential for living a life that is crucified with Christ. It is the Holy Spirit who gives us the power to overcome our sinful nature and to live a life that is pleasing to God.

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1:8 KJV)

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12,13 KJV)

Moment by Moment Surrender

As we walk with Christ, we must learn to surrender to him moment by moment. This means being willing to give up our own desires and ambitions, and instead seeking to do God's will.

And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (Luke 9:23 KJV)

The Power of Surrender

Surrendering to God's will is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength. It takes courage to let go of our own desires and ambitions, and instead seek to do God's will. God's strength is our strength:

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (Philippians 4:13 KJV)

The Joy of Surrender

When we surrender to God's will, we experience a joy that is unlike anything else. This joy comes from knowing that we are doing God's will, and that he is working everything out for our good. (See Romans 8:28)

The Peace of Surrender

Surrendering to God's will also brings us peace. When we let go of our own desires and ambitions, and instead seek to do God's will, we experience a peace that passes all understanding. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, being crucified with Christ is a call that is extended to all believers. It is a call to die to our old self and to live a new life in Christ. It is a call to let go of our sinful habits and our selfish desires. It is a call to surrender to God's will. It is a call to let go of our own desires and ambitions, and instead seek to do God's will. It is a call to be willing to suffer and to sacrifice for the sake of Christ (See 2 Timothy 3:12). But it is a call that is worth accepting, for the reward of being crucified with Christ is great. 

 When we surrender to God's will, we experience a joy and peace that is unlike anything else.

Final Thoughts

As we reflect on what it means to be crucified with Christ, let us remember that it is a call to die to our old self and to live a new life in Christ. Let us be willing to surrender to God's will, to trust in his sovereignty, and to live a life of obedience. And let us rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to give us the strength and the courage to live a life that is pleasing to God.

For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (2 Corinthians 4:16 KJV)

May we be willing to take up our cross and follow Christ, no matter the cost. May we be willing to be crucified with Christ, that we might live a new life in him. And may we always remember that the reward of being crucified with Christ is great, for it is in Him that we find true life and true freedom.

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20 KJV)

Final Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, help us to surrender to Your will. Give us the courage to let go of our own desires and ambitions, and instead seek to do Your will. Fill us with your joy and peace, and help us to walk with You moment by moment. Please send Your Holy Spirit to help us in our daily lives as we walk according to Your will. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Crucified With Christ - Phillips Craig Dean

Crucified With Christ - Praise Experience

I Surrender All - Heritage Singers

It Is Well With My Soul

    When trials come, and they will come, we have a choice to make. We can let the difficulties of life define us, or we can rise above them, knowing that God is in control.

    The hymn "It is Well With my Soul" was written by Horatio Spafford in 1873. Spafford was a successful lawyer and businessman, but he faced numerous trials, including the loss of his only son and his business in the Great Chicago Fire.

    Despite these challenges, Spafford's faith remained strong. He wrote the hymn after experiencing his greatest trial yet – the loss of his four daughters in a shipwreck.

    The ship was traveling from the United States to England, where Spafford was planning to join his family on a missionary trip. However, he had to stay behind due to business obligations.

    Tragically, the ship sank in a storm, and all four of Spafford's daughters perished. When Spafford received the news, he was devastated, but he also found comfort in his faith.

    As he traveled to England to join his wife, who had survived the tragedy, Spafford wrote the now-famous hymn. The lyrics reflect his trust in God, even in the midst of unimaginable sorrow.

    The hymn begins, "When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, 'It is well, it is well with my soul.'"

    In these opening lines, Spafford acknowledges the peace and sorrow that he has experienced. Yet, despite the turmoil, he can say with confidence that it is well with his soul.

    This declaration is not a denial of his pain but a testament to his faith. Spafford knows that God is in control, and that He is working everything out for His good.

    As the hymn continues, Spafford writes, "My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part, but the whole, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!"

    Here, Spafford celebrates the fact that his sin has been forgiven through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This knowledge brings him joy and peace, even in the midst of sorrow.

    The next verse reads, "For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live: if Jordan above me shall roll, no pang shall be mine, for in death as in life, thou wilt whisper thy peace to my soul."

    In this verse, Spafford expresses his desire to live for Christ, no matter what challenges he may face. He knows that even in death, God will be with him, whispering peace to his soul.

    The hymn concludes with the famous lines, "And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, even so, it is well with my soul."

    Here, Spafford looks forward to the day when he will see God face-to-face. He knows that this day will bring an end to all his sorrow and pain, and he will finally experience the fullness of God's peace.

    As we reflect on the story behind "It is Well With my Soul," we are reminded that our faith is not tested by our circumstances but by our response to those circumstances.

    We can choose to let our trials define us, or we can rise above them, knowing that God is in control. Like Spafford, we can declare, "It is well with my soul," even in the midst of sorrow.

    This declaration is not a denial of our pain but a testament to our faith. We know that God is working everything out for His good, and that He will bring us through even the darkest of times.

    As we face our own trials and challenges, let us remember the example of Horatio Spafford. Let us choose to trust in God, even when we do not understand what is happening. Let us remember that our faith is being refined and purified. Let us remember that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

    Let us declare, with con
fidence and faith, "It is well with my soul." For when we do, we will experience the peace and joy that only God can provide.

    May we, like Spafford, find comfort in our faith, even in the midst of sorrow. May we declare, with confidence and faith, "It is well with my soul."

    As we close, let us remember the powerful words of God in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

    May this promise bring us comfort and peace, knowing that God is working everything out for our good.

    May we always remember that our faith is not tested by our circumstances but by our response to those circumstances.

    May we choose to trust in God, even when we do not understand what is happening. May we declare, with confidence and faith, "It is well with my soul."

    As we go through our daily lives, let us remember that God is always with us. He is our rock, our refuge, and our Savior. May we trust in Him, no matter what challenges we may face.

    In times of sorrow, may we turn to God for comfort. May we remember that He is the God of all comfort, and that He will never leave us or forsake us.

    In times of joy, may we give thanks to God. May we remember that all good things come from Him, and that He is the source of all our blessings.

    As we look to the future, may we remember that God is in control. May we trust in His sovereignty, and may we have confidence that He will work everything out for our good.

    May we, like Horatio Spafford, be able to declare, "It is well with my soul," no matter what challenges we may face. May we have the same faith and trust in God that Spafford had.

    As we close, let us remember the powerful words of God in Psalm 23:4, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

    May these words bring us comfort and peace, knowing that God is always with us. May we always remember that our faith is not tested by our circumstances, but by our response to those circumstances.

    May we choose to trust in God, no matter what challenges we may face. May we declare, with confidence and faith, "It is well with my soul."

    "It is well with my soul" this hymn was became blessings to others especially to those who suffer in pains and it was translated to other different dialects. 

    May we always remember that God is in control, and that He will work everything out for our good. May we trust in His sovereignty, and may we have confidence that He will bring us through even the darkest of times.

    May we, like Spafford, be able to declare, "It is well with my soul," no matter what challenges we may face. May we have the same faith and trust in God that Spafford had.

    But how can we, like Spafford, find joy and peace in the midst of trials? The answer lies in our perspective. As 1 Peter 1:7 says, "These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold."

    In this verse, Peter reminds us that trials are not random events, but rather opportunities for our faith to be refined and purified. Just as gold is tested and purified by fire, our faith is tested and purified by trials.

    But what about the pain and suffering that we experience in trials? Is it worth it? Romans 8:18 says, "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."

    In this verse, Paul reminds us that our present sufferings, no matter how great they may seem, are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. This glory is not just some future event only, but also a present reality that we can experience through our faith in Christ.

    In conclusion, let us remember that our faith is not just a feeling, but a choice. May we choose to trust in God, no matter what challenges we may face. May we have the same faith and trust in God that Horatio Spafford had.

    May God bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

Amen.

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It is well with my soul - men

It is well with my soul - sda hymn 530

It is well with my soul - Music of Hope

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It is well with my soul - Adventist Hymnal - 530

Dealing With Temptation

     Temptation is a universal human experience. We all face temptations every day, whether it's the temptation to sin, to doubt God, or to give up on our faith. As Christians, we know that temptation is a normal part of life, but we also know that we don't have to give in to it. In this message, we'll explore what the Bible says about temptation and how we can deal with it in our own lives.

The Source of Temptation

     The Bible tells us that temptation comes from three main sources: the world, the flesh, and the devil (1 John 2:16, James 1:14-15, 1 Peter 5:8). The world tempts us with its values and desires, which are often opposed to God's will. Our own flesh tempts us with its desires and weaknesses. And the devil, our spiritual enemy, tempts us with his lies and deceptions. But we know that all these temptations comes from the devil (Satan). 

The Nature of Temptation

   Temptation is not sin itself, but rather the opportunity to sin. It's the suggestion or enticement to do something that goes against God's will. Temptation can come in many forms, from subtle whispers in our ear to overt and blatant solicitations. It can be tempting to rationalize or justify our sin, but the Bible is clear: sin is sin, and it separates us from God.

The Purpose of Temptation

   Why does God allow temptation in our lives? One reason is to test our faith and obedience. Just as gold is refined in the fire, our faith is refined through temptation (1 Peter 1:6-7). Temptation also gives us the opportunity to choose obedience and to grow in our relationship with God.

The Promise of Victory

   The good news is that we don't have to give in to temptation. Through Jesus Christ, we have the power to resist temptation and to live a life of obedience to God. The Bible promises that God will provide a way out of temptation, and that He will give us the strength to overcome it (1 Corinthians 10:13, Philippians 4:13).

Practical Strategies for Dealing with Temptation

   So how can we deal with temptation in our own lives? Here are some practical strategies:

- Recognize the source of temptation: Be aware of the sources of temptation in your life, whether it's the world, the flesh, or the pride of life. It comes from the devil. 

- Resist temptation: When you're faced with temptation, resist it. Don't give in to it, and don't rationalize or justify it.

- Run to God: When you're tempted, run to God. Pray for strength and for wisdom, and ask Him to help you resist temptation. The Bible tells us on how to fight or resit the devil/temptations.

   Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. (James 4:7-8,10 KJV)

- Find accountability: Surround yourself with people who will hold you accountable and encourage you to resist temptation.

- Focus on God's word: Fill your mind with God's word, and focus on His promises and His character.

   Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. (1 Peter 5:6-10 KJV) 

The Role of Faith in Dealing with Temptation

   Faith plays a critical role in dealing with temptation. When we're faced with temptation, we need to trust in God's goodness and His sovereignty. We need to believe that He is able to help us resist temptation, and that He will provide a way out. We also need to trust in His forgiveness and His mercy when we do give in to temptation. Remember we have a High Priest Jesus Christ the Son of God who also tempted like us but without sin. So therefore, let us come to Him to surrender our life because He is able to help us to overcome temptations.

   For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:15-16 KJV) 

The Importance of Humility in Dealing with Temptation

   Humility is also essential in dealing with temptation. When we're faced with temptation, we need to recognize our own weakness and vulnerability. We need to acknowledge that we can't resist temptation on our own, and that we need God's help. We also need to be willing to ask for help and to seek accountability from others.

The Danger of Complacency in Dealing with Temptation

   One of the greatest dangers in dealing with temptation is complacency. When we're not vigilant, when we're not on guard against temptation, we can easily fall into sin. We need to be constantly on the lookout for temptation, and we need to be prepared to resist it at all times. The Bible tells us on how to deal with. 

   Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. (1 Peter 5:8,9 KJV) 

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Dealing with Temptation

   The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in dealing with temptation. He is our Helper, our Comforter, and our Guide. He gives us the power to resist temptation, and He helps us to understand God's word and to apply it to our lives. We need to rely on the Holy Spirit's power and guidance when we're faced with temptation. The Bible says:

   Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:... Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (John 16:7,8,13 KJV)

" But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." (Romans 8: 9 KJV)

Conclusion

   Temptation is a universal human (Christian) experience, but it's not something that we have to give in to. Through Jesus Christ, we have the power to resist temptation and to live a life of obedience to God. By recognizing the source of temptation, resisting it, running to God, finding accountability, and focusing on God's word, we can overcome temptation and grow in our faith.

   Let us always remember that Jesus Christ our High Priest also  tempted in the way as ours but He still managed to didn't commit sin. He is perfectly our helper in all the times especially when we are being tempted. So, let us come boldly unto Him. 

     Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:14-16 KJV)

Final Thoughts

   Remember, temptation is not a sign of weakness, but rather an opportunity to grow stronger in our faith. When we're faced with temptation, let's choose to resist it and to run to God. Let's surround ourselves with people who will encourage and support us, and let's focus on God's word and His promises. He promised us:

" He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. " (Revelation 3: 5 KJV) This is one of His promises.

     And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.... Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. (1 John 2:17,24-25 KJV) 

Prayer

   Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of victory over temptation. Help us to recognize the sources of temptation in our lives and to resist it. Give us the strength and the courage to run to You when we're faced with temptation, and send your Holy Spirit to strengthen us to resist temptation. Surround us with people who will encourage and support us. Help us to focus on Your word and Your promises, and give us the power to overcome temptation and to grow in our faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Scripture References

- 1 John 2:16

- James 1:14-15

- 1 Peter 5:6-10

- 1 Corinthians 10:13

- Philippians 4:13

- 1 Peter 1:6-7

- Romans 8:9

- Hebrews 4:14-16

- James 4:7-8,10

- Revelation 3:5

Don't Forget The Sabbath

 

    As we journey through life, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily routines. We often find ourselves overwhelmed with work, family, and social commitments, leaving us little time for rest and relaxation. However, God has given us a precious gift – the Sabbath – a day of rest, rejuvenation and worship.

The Biblical Context

    In the book of Genesis, we read that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day. This seventh day was blessed and sanctified by God, and it became the Sabbath (Genesis 2:2-3). The Sabbath was a day of rest a time to be relaxed and to live in the moment, which makes it easier for us to appreciate God’s creation around us.

The Sabbath in the Old Testament

    In the Old Testament, the Sabbath was a day of worship and rest. The Israelites/people of God were commanded to remember the Sabbath and keep it holy (Exodus 20:8-11). They were not to work on the Sabbath, nor were they to allow their animals to work. The Sabbath was a day to rest and recharge, to focus on God and their relationship with Him.

The Sabbath in the New Testament

    In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles observed the Sabbath (Acts 13:13-15, 42-44; 17:1-2; see also Luke 23:53-56), but they also emphasized the importance of serving God every day.

The Purpose of the Sabbath

    So, what is the purpose of the Sabbath? It's a day to rest and recharge, to focus on God and our relationship with Him. It's a day to worship and serve God, to read His Word and pray. The Sabbath is a gift from God, a reminder that we are not just physical beings, but also spiritual beings. When we get to the Ten Commandments just a few chapters later, we see the fourth commandment presented as a memorial of creation (Exodus 20:8-11). Jesus Christ also observed/keeps the Sabbath. And He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up: and, as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. (Luke 4:16 KJV).

The Benefits of Observing the Sabbath

    Observing the Sabbath has many benefits. It helps us to rest and recharge, to reduce stress and anxiety. It gives us time to focus on God and our relationship with Him, to worship and serve Him. The Sabbath also helps us to prioritize our lives, to focus on what's truly important. In the book of Isaiah chapter 58 the Lord has given us a great description that if we keep the Sabbath holy and we call it "delight" then we will find our joy in the Lord. The bible says:

    “If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken. (Isaiah 58:13,14 NIV).

The Consequences of Not Observing the Sabbath

    However, not observing the Sabbath can have negative consequences. It can lead to burnout and exhaustion, to increased stress and anxiety. It can also lead to a lack of focus and purpose, to a sense of disconnection from God and others. The bible warned us:

    "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from His. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief." (Hebrew 4:9-11 KJV). 

Practical Tips for Observing the Sabbath

    So, how can we observe the Sabbath in a practical way? Here are a few tips:

- Set aside seventh-day (Saturday) as a day of rest and worship.

- Avoid work and other activities that distract us from God.

- Take time to read God's Word and pray.

- Worship and serve God with others.

- Take a break from technology and social media.

The bible clearly states that observing Sabbath from sunset to another sunset. Friday sundown to Saturday sunset.

    "It is a day of sabbath rest for you, and you must deny yourselves. From the evening of the ninth day of the month until the following evening you are to observe your sabbath.” (Leviticus 23:32 NIV).

Creating a Sabbath Routine

    Creating a Sabbath routine can help us to observe the Sabbath in a consistent and meaningful way. Here are a few ideas:

- Start the day with a time of worship and prayer.

- Take a walk or engage in some other form of exercise.

- Spend time reading God's Word and reflecting on its meaning.

- Take a nap or engage in some other form of rest.

- Worship and serve God with others.

Making the Sabbath a Priority

    Making the Sabbath a priority requires intentionality and commitment. Here are a few tips:

- Schedule the Sabbath into your calendar.

- Communicate your Sabbath plans to others.

- Avoid scheduling work or other activities on the Sabbath.

- Take time to prepare for the Sabbath.

- Be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances.

Overcoming Obstacles to Observing the Sabbath

    Observing the Sabbath can be challenging, especially in our fast-paced and increasingly secular world. Here are a few tips for overcoming obstacles:

- Identify the obstacles that prevent you from observing the Sabbath.

- Develop strategies for overcoming these obstacles.

- Seek support from others.

- Be patient and persistent.

- Focus on the benefits of observing the Sabbath.

- Remember always that the sabbath is sign between you and your God (Ezekiel 20:12,20). And it is a part of a ten commandments of God. It is test of loyalty to Him.

The Sabbath and Rest

    The Sabbath is closely tied to the concept of rest. Rest is essential for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Here are a few reasons why rest is important:

- Rest helps us to recharge and refocus.

- Rest reduces stress and anxiety.

- Rest improves our physical and mental health.

- Rest increases our productivity and creativity.

- Rest helps us to connect with God and others.

- Rest helps us to recharge our physical batteries.

- Rest helps us to improve our mental clarity and focus.

- Rest helps us to cultivate a sense of calm and peace.

    By resting on the Sabbath, we can recharge our batteries, renew our strength, and refocus our priorities. Let's make rest a central part of our Sabbath observance.

The Sabbath and Worship

    The Sabbath is also closely tied to the concept of worship. Worship is essential for our spiritual growth and development. Here are a few reasons why worship is important:

- Worship helps us to connect with God and deepen our relationship with Him.

- Worship helps us to express our gratitude and praise.

- Worship helps us to confess our sins and receive forgiveness.

- Worship helps us to grow in our faith and understanding.

- Worship helps us to find meaning and purpose in life.

- Worship helps us to cultivate a sense of awe and wonder.

- Worship helps us to experience the presence of God.

- Worship helps us to develop a sense of humility and dependence on God.

- Worship helps us to connect with others who share our faith.

    By worshiping God on the Sabbath, we can recharge our spiritual batteries, renew our commitment to God, and refocus our priorities. Let's make worship a central part of our Sabbath observance.

The Sabbath and Gratitude

    The Sabbath is also a time to cultivate gratitude. Gratitude is essential for our emotional and spiritual well-being. Here are a few reasons why gratitude is important:

- Gratitude helps us to focus on the positive aspects of life.

- Gratitude helps us to develop a sense of contentment and satisfaction.

- Gratitude helps us to cultivate a sense of humility and dependence on God.

- Gratitude helps us to connect with others and build stronger relationships.

- Gratitude helps us to find meaning and purpose in life.

    By cultivating gratitude on the Sabbath, we can develop a more positive and hopeful outlook on life, and we can deepen our relationship with God. The bible says:

    "A Psalm or Song for the sabbath day". 

    "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound. " (Psalms 92:1-3 see also Psalms 100 KJV).

The Sabbath and Community

    The Sabbath is also tied to the concept of God's community. Community is essential for our emotional and spiritual well-being. Here are a few reasons why community is important:

- God's Community helps us to feel connected and supported.

- God's Community helps us to grow in our faith and understanding.

- God's Community helps us to serve and care for others.

- God's Community helps us to find meaning and purpose in life.

- God's Community helps us to cultivate a sense of belonging.

Conclusion

    In conclusion, the Sabbath is a precious gift from God. It's a day of rest and rejuvenation, a day to focus on God and our relationship with Him. Let's make the Sabbath a priority in our lives, and let's experience the many benefits that come from observing this special day.

Reflection Questions

    Here are some reflection questions to help you think more deeply about the Sabbath:

- What are some ways that I can observe the Sabbath in my daily life?

- How can I prioritize rest and relaxation on the Sabbath?

- What are some ways that I can worship and serve God on the Sabbath?

- How can I connect with others and build community on the Sabbath?

- What are some ways that I can cultivate a sense of gratitude and awe on the Sabbath?

Prayer

    Here's a prayer to help you get started:

    Dear God, thank you for the gift of the Sabbath. Help me to prioritize this special day and to use it to rest, rejuvenate, and focus on my relationship with you. Give me the strength and courage to observe the Sabbath in a way that honors you. Amen.

Additional Resources

    Here are some additional resources to help you learn more about the Sabbath:

- The Bible (Exodus 20:8-11, Deuteronomy 5:12-15)

- "The Sabbath" by adventist.org

- "The Sabbath Then And Now" sabbath-then-and-now

- "Making The Sabbath  The Delight" Making The Sabbath Delight

- "The Delight of Sabbath" Delight of Sabbath