OUTLINE:
“Sabbath”
from shabbathon (Hebrew) – means to make cease; translated “complete rest (4), rest (4), sabbath observance (1), sabbatical (1), solemn rest (1)”
Integrity to God’s Purposes
There’s nothing heroic about burn-out. If you run the first mile of a marathon without regard for the remaining 25.2 miles, you’re an idiot, not a role model.
2Th 3:10
For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.
Humility vs. Arrogance
A person who refuses to rest and reflect, spiritually, lacks faith. There’s always a “storm” somewhere in our periphery in this life. We must learn to hand over the reins to God.
There exists a natural tension between work and rest.
Mk 14:7
For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me.
The Fruit of Your Labor
Unless you are laboring for the Lord, then your labor is in vain. If you’re laboring when you ought to be resting, the Lord is not pleased (balance: if you’re resting when you should be laboring, this displeases the Lord, also).
Integrity to God’s Purposes
There’s nothing heroic about burn-out. If you run the first mile of a marathon without regard for the remaining 25.2 miles, you’re an idiot, not a role model.
1Co 9:11-12
If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you? If others share this rightful claim on you, do not we even more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ.
I’ll Miss You
I love you all very much. Please pray for my sabbatical and stand firm together as a congregation!