
I. The Problem: A Culture of Exhaustion
Glorifying Busyness: Always doing, always moving—at what cost?
Burnout on the Rise:
52% of Americans feel stressed daily (Gallup, 2023).
1 in 3 adults don’t get enough sleep (CDC).
75% of adults feel overwhelmed by stress (APA).
The Toxic Mindset: Our worth isn’t in what we do, but our culture convinces us otherwise.
Story: The Parable of the Lumberjack – Cutting without sharpening the blade leads to exhaustion.
II. The Gift of Sabbath – A Holy Pause
Definition: A day set apart for rest and worship.
Biblical Foundation:
Genesis 2:1-3 – God rested, setting an example.
Exodus 20:8-11 – Sabbath as a command for Israel.
Deuteronomy 5:12-15 – Sabbath as a reminder of deliverance.
Mark 2:27 – “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”
• Three Types of Sabbath in Scripture:
1. God’s Sabbath (Genesis 2:1-3) – He rested, blessed, and sanctified the day.
2. Israel’s Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11, Deuteronomy 5:12-15) – A sign of God’s provision and redemption.
3. Christian Sabbath (Hebrews 4:1-11) – A spiritual rest in Christ.
Sabbath = An Invitation of Grace – Not a command to follow, but a gift to embrace.
III. Why Sabbath Matters
Resets Our Identity – We are more than what we produce.
Restores Our Souls – Creates space for renewal in a draining world.
Reorients Our Focus – Reminds us that God is in control.
IV. Practical Ways to Sabbath
Set Aside a Day – Choose a 24-hour period for rest and worship.
Unplug – Disconnect from work, emails, and social media.
Engage in Delight – Ask:
o Does this bring me rest?
o Does this bring me life?
o Does this glorify God?
Trust God – Sabbath is an act of faith, believing that He sustains us even when we stop working.
Quote: “Sabbath is not about resting perfectly; it’s about resting in the One who is perfect.” – John Mark Comer
V. Conclusion: Sabbath Teaches Us to Slow Down and Trust God
Sabbath and fasting are invitations, not obligations—gifts that draw us closer to God.
Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Call to Action: How will you incorporate Sabbath into your life this week?
Final Thought: “In a world that screams for our attention, Sabbath and Fasting are whispers of grace, inviting us to find stillness, connection, and renewal in the presence of God.”