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BIBLICAL LEISURE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1
Mark 6:30-32

Matthew 11:28-30

 

“…Come ye yourselves apart…

and rest a while…”

 

BIBLICAL LEISURE
 
Work is good and sacred, but rest is also necessary. “Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work…” (Exod 20:9,10).
 
Jesus Himself knew how to rest and to give His disciples rest, “Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while” (Mark 6:31). “Desert place” here does not necessarily mean a deserted or desolate place (eg. the Sahara); it can mean a quiet place where there is no crowd like a quiet spot by the sea or in the hills (cf. Mark 3:7; 9:2). The desert places of Judea for instance abound with oases and waterfalls. David and his men sought refuge in the desert where there was abundant food and water, and many caves for dwelling or shelter (eg. Engedi, 1 Sam 23:29).
 
The word “rest” in the Greek literally means “to rest up.” When Jesus told His disciples to rest, He meant that they should refresh themselves, to take a break, or take it easy. Since they had been so busy “for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat,” it was good that they should take some time off to sleep and to eat—to recharge and reenergise themselves.
 
There is no sin in taking time out for a vacation or a retreat. Church camps or Bible camps have a biblical basis. Many churches hold yearly retreats to help members get away from the hustle and bustle of life in a meaningful way by spending time together to meditate on God’s Word and have fellowship with one another. Such camps are good for both body and soul. Don’t miss out on church camps.
 
THOUGHT: Read Matthew 11:28-30.
PRAYER: (Thank God for strength to work each day, and for rest on the Sabbath day.)

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