Taking a deeper dive into what Sabbath truly means has been eye-opening for me. To simplify, or if there were a Beginners Guide for practicing the Sabbath, the four principles to remember are:

Stop. Rest. Delight. Worship.

Over the past month, we’ve touched on the first three which leads us into the final one – Worship.

The vast majority of us probably think of music and praise and singing when we hear the word worship and well, you wouldn’t be wrong. However, the common misconception is that it ends there. In my opinion, that’s only where it begins.

I’ll be the first to say that corporate worship is incredibly necessary and invaluable. (You don’t see my family sitting in the front row every Sunday for nothing.) Scripture tells us in Hebrews 10:25, “And let us not neglect meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another.” There is something very special and real that happens when God’s people are gathered in worship.

But let’s talk about what it looks like outside of that.

The purpose of Sabbath isn’t actually for our own gain – although we definitely reap benefits. It’s all about glorifying God in all that we’re doing.

Taking a hike can be an act of worship as you’re finding joy in God’s creation. Having friends over for a meal can be another act of worship because you’re spending time in community with others. Staying in bed longer than you normally would so you can read your Bible, pray, and listen for God… All acts of worship.

Spending your Sabbath in worship is done when your heart and mind are focused on connecting with God. No matter how you choose to spend your day of rest, do it with a spirit of gratitude and purpose.

My prayer and encouragement for you is to accept, welcome, and relish in the gift of Sabbath that God has given you. Dedicate the day to God and let everything you do point to Him.

-Jen