What to do on a “Sabbath”

~ "Sabbath" Part 3

Sabbath time isn't meant for us to just sit and stare, though sometimes that can be wonderful! Here are some thoughts about what to do with "Sabbath time."

1. Spend some time thoughtfully writing out current praises and prayer requests. Then, enjoy the freedom of praying out loud. You can kneel, lay down, walk, or find a sunny spot. Open your hands and humble yourself through your physical posture. I love to pray with my eyes open, being mindful of God's presence with me. Ask Him to reveal any sin in your life, teach you from His Word, and refresh your spirit during your Sabbath time.
   
2. Read an extended passage of scripture, then reread it and meditate on it. Gather a few different versions. Check out a commentary. Need a place to start? Try Ephesians.
   
3. Write out your response to the truths that you find in God's Word. Write down the key words, themes, and applications for your life.
   
4. Go for a walk. Talk to the Lord as you go. Take new notice of His creations, and meditate on what it reveals about His character.
   
5. Write cards to believers who have blessed, taught, challenged, or encouraged you, or write cards to others who do not yet know God.
   
6. Make a list of all of the blessings you enjoy from God.
   
7. Create a timeline of your life, noting the key people and circumstances that God has used in your life to bring you to Himself and to grow your faith.
   
8. Listen to worshipful music, or play worshipful music.
   
9. Do something that you rarely get to enjoy, and feel God's pleasure as you express the unique "you" that He made you to be. I love to bake something special, write, draw, or read a book I enjoy.
   
10. Just sit in a quiet place and think about the scripture that you read, what God is doing in your life, and the future that awaits you with Him. I love to sit in the wicker chair in my room, on my porch swing, by the window, or on my back porch surrounded by trees.
    

Are the days in this new year starting to fill up with necessary things, routine things, and even good things? We will make decisions, daily, about how to spend our time. There will be many needs and many challenges. Since we all have the same amount of time, we can't afford not to stop and rest and remember Whose we are. In the months ahead, "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil," Ephesians 5:15,16 (ESV). Plan for a Sabbath, and stay in tune with what God wants for your year.