Doll Can Create

Embracing the Sabbath in the Summer Season

We are now entering the heart of summer. The days stretch longer. The world seems to slow down just a bit. For many of us, this season offers the perfect opportunity to step back from our busy lives. It allows us to reflect on the rhythms of rest that God has designed for us. It’s a time when we can honor the Sabbath, not just as a day off. More than that, it is a spiritual discipline that helps us reconnect with our Creator.

In Exodus 20:8-10, God commands us to “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” But what does that really mean for us today? How can we incorporate Sabbath into our lives? Our time is often consumed by responsibilities. We also have many tasks and distractions.

The Call to Rest

The concept of Sabbath rest isn’t just about taking a break from work. It’s about pausing to recognize God’s presence. It also allows ourselves to be renewed by Him. God established the rhythm of work and rest from the very beginning of creation. After six days of creating the world, He rested on the seventh day, setting an example for us. The Sabbath is a sacred time to step away from our labors. It is a moment to focus on what God has done in our lives. We also consider what God is doing now.

In the midst of a busy summer, it can be easy to forget the importance of this spiritual practice. The hustle of our everyday routines can prevent us from slowing down enough to truly rest in God’s presence. But the Sabbath reminds us to stop, reflect, and breathe in His goodness.

Rest as a Gift

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us. He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This invitation isn’t just for those who are physically tired. It’s for anyone feeling the weight of the world. It’s also for those carrying emotional or spiritual burdens. Jesus promises to give us rest—a rest that refreshes our souls and brings us peace.

Summer can be a time to experience this rest in new ways. We can spend time in nature. We can enjoy a slower pace of life. Or we can simply sit in quiet reflection. In these ways, we allow God to renew us. The Sabbath calls us to embrace this gift of rest. It allows our minds and bodies to be restored. This way, we can fully experience the peace that only God can give.

Embracing God’s Presence

As we pause to rest, we also pause to recognize God’s presence in our lives. Summer is a wonderful time to slow down. It is a perfect time to take in the beauty of creation. We appreciate the flowers in bloom, the sun shining brightly, and the stillness of a quiet evening. These moments invite us to remember that God is in all things, and in His presence, we find true rest.

But true rest isn’t just about being physically still. It’s about spiritually resting in God’s arms. It’s about surrendering our worries, releasing our anxieties, and allowing His peace to wash over us. In these sacred moments of stillness, we hear His voice. We feel His comfort. We experience His love in a deeper way.

How to Practice Sabbath in the Summer

1. Create Space for Silence – Take a walk in nature or enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea. Sit in your favorite chair with a Bible in hand. Carve out moments of silence to reflect on God’s goodness.
2. Disconnect from Distractions – The summer heat can often lead to a slower pace. Use this time to disconnect from screens. Step away from emails and social media. Embrace the freedom of being present in the moment.
3. Enjoy the Outdoors – Spend time outside, taking in the beauty of creation. Go for a walk in the park, sit by the lake, or simply enjoy a sunset. These moments remind us of the Creator’s handiwork.
4. Worship and Reflect – Take time to worship, either in a community setting or privately. Singing hymns, reflecting on scripture, or simply praying can help us reconnect with God’s presence.

Hymn for the Day: Take Time to be Holy

---

Closing Thought:
In this busy world, it’s easy to feel like there’s always something more to do. But the Sabbath is a gentle invitation to slow down, rest in God’s presence, and embrace His peace. This summer, let’s commit to honoring the Sabbath as a sacred space to be renewed and restored. Remember that the rest we find in God is not just a pause from work. It is a deep and lasting peace that fills our souls.

May this mid-week pause encourage you to take a step back, breathe deeply, and find rest in God’s loving arms.

Blessings to all