Just a Thought: Someone has said, “I would rather wear out than rust.” I would say, “Neither is a good or a biblical option.” To rust implies we sit around and do nothing. But, to wear out implies that we work ourselves to death. While work is biblical and wise, rest is also God ordained. After all, the Lord Himself set this precedent. “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.” (Gen 2:2) Much has been made about the seventh day and this rest. So, I would like to theologically clear some of this up. First, seven is the perfect number and is equated with covenant of God (Ex. 31:13, 17). When the Lord finished His work this day of rest signified its completion. Before the fall of man this day represented the completion of perfection and the setting apart (sanctification) of His creation by rest which is what is meant by He blessed and made it holy. Secondly, After the fall of man, rest became the goal. Our struggle with sin is put to rest in salvation through Christ (Heb. 4:8-10). Moses and Joshua led Israel to the promised land where they were to conquer the land, drive out the enemy and be at rest. Thirdly, today the world and us await the day when all will be finally redeemed and restored to rest. Fourthly, rest is good for our frail bodies. Rest is good for a time of reflection. Rest is good or a time of refueling. Setting aside a day of rest and to honor the Lord is wise. Today the church does this on Sunday (the first day of the week) because this was the day Jesus rose from the grave. So, every Sunday is a celebration of the completed work of Christ and is “resurrection Sunday.” The point is this, Rest is good and God ordained. Not laziness, but rest. Work is good and God ordained as well. But just as laziness will lead to ruin so will work without rest. So, learn to rest and use your time of rest wisely. The Lord gave it to us and showed it to us. He didn’t need to rest, but He did. As an example, to us because we do need to rest. Even Jesus taught the Sabbath was created for man and not God (Mk. 2:27). So, take your rest when it is appropriate and use it wisely as it was intended. Rest, be refueled and give praise to God for it! There is nothing wrong with taking time to rest. And there is nothing good that will come from neglecting that time either.
