Welcome to day 5 of our 40 day challenge, and the last day we’ll spend on Sabbath!

(You can catch up on Day 1, Day 2 , Day 3, and Day 4 if you missed them)

We’ve now had our first possible Sabbath of the challenge! How did it go? Were you able to carve out time to spend with God and delight in joy? Did you enter into today a bit more rested and renewed?  Were you met with frustration, interruptions, and interference? Remember that any change we make toward God is always opposed, so be encouraged when you face obstacles and interference. Instead of frustration, practice meeting interruptions and obstacles with curiosity.

To conclude our focus on Sabbath and rest, we’ll end with this passage:

The Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
² He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
³ He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
⁴ Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
⁵ You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
⁶ Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever. Pslam 23 NLT

God’s heart for you is always good. He longs to provide all you need, lead you to rest in His beautiful creation and renew your strength. Is this how you see God? Have false religious ideas corrupted your image of God? Many view the Lord more like Zeus, an old bearded man waiting to send lightning bolts to those who anger him. Instead, we have a Good Shepherd who leads His sheep, is humble and gentle in heart, and delights in giving His children good gifts. Knowing the character of God is essential to our relationship with Him.

Reflection for prayer and/or journaling:
Reflect on your experience of Sabbath this week. Were there any moments of delight? Joy? Whisper or write a prayer of thanks to the Lord for His goodness for these things. Pay attention to the things that stir your heart toward Him this week.

Action steps:
What about your first Sabbath would you like to continue? What would you change for next time? Are there any plans or details you can prepare to make the day more joyful?

Pray together:

Father, we bring you our hopes and expectations of a day of delight and joy in your presence. They may feel too big or even too vulnerable to share, but you know our hearts. Bless each person in this challenge abundantly, filling each heart with your goodness. Show each person where you are working in their lives, and help them notice something today that you have brought into their lives simply for their delight.

♥ Samantha