Hi everyone! After a month of vacation, the “Up!” devotional is back!

One of the good things about getting away is regaining some perspective. One of the things I regained some perspective about was REST.

We all need it. We all want it. But not all of us get it as much as we should. So hopefully what I’m about to say helps steer us in a healthier direction.

While reading about the 10 Commandments in Deuteronomy 5:15 I noticed a detail about rest that isn’t always mentioned:

“Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.”

The fact that we can take a day each week to rest is supposed to be a reminder that we’re not slaves anymore! Slaves didn’t get a choice. They HAD to do what their taskmasters told them to. They were run ragged and didn’t have an option.

So when the Hebrews were freed from slavery, a day to rest was also a reminder about the liberating beauty and value of their freedom.

Today, we’re free. So why don’t we act like it and make better choices?

Here’s how I think about it. One day a week for rest, worship, mercy and joy is not something we HAVE to do; it’s something we GET to do.

Pick a day. Go slower. Do less. Praise God. Pray. Enjoy his creation. Share a laugh.

“Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.”

One day a week for rest, worship, mercy and joy is not something we HAVE to do; it’s something we GET to do.

By Matthew Ruttan

–“Up!” is published 5 days a week (Monday-Friday)
–I return to my duties at Westminster Church on Wed. Sept. 2, 2020.
–Today’s “Up!” is connected to a sermon I shared called Soul Fatigue. You can watch it here.
–Bible quotes are from the NIV.