Exodus 31:16 The Israelites are to observe the Sabbath, celebrating it for the generations to come as a lasting covenant.
The Israelites are going from 400 years of constant work every day of the week, to observing the Sabbath, implementing a day of rest. This day of rest is so important to God for the Israelites to observe that He says “… Anyone who desecrates it is to be put to death; those who do any work on that day must be cut off from their people.” (v14).
Exodus 31:17a It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth,
Hebrews 4:12, “For the word of God is alive and active….”, comes to mind as I read today’s verses about observing the Sabbath. Rest, these days, is much easier to come by for most. I think what God wants is a day set aside for Him, to touch base with Him, to sit with Him, to listen to Him. Does He want that daily? Yes! But setting aside one day a week dedicated to Him is a great start.
Exodus 31:17b and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed.’ ”
Precious Savior, Thank You that You want relationship with us, that it is so important to You that You urge us to observe a Sabbath rest. Thank You that we are no longer under the threat of death or banishment if we don’t observe the Sabbath. You don’t want automatons. You know time with You is good for us, and You want that for us. Help us to seek it for ourselves. Amen.
Exodus 31:18 When the Lord finished speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the covenant law, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God.
Have a blessed day.