DECEMBER 10, Hebrews 4:9-11

Rest is something that we all look forward to after a hard day’s work. There always seems to be so much to do but so little time. Whatever time we can have to relax is so precious! The hardworking labourer appreciates this the most! All of us understand how important physical rest is at the end of a busy day. But is this the only type of rest that we should look forward to? Today we learn about another type of rest. It is not a physical rest but one that is to come. What is this future rest about?

This is a rest that is only for the people of God (verse 9). Only Christians are able to enter into this rest because they are the ones actively serving Him. There are many who profess to be Christians, but have never put their hands to do God’s work. If this is how you view your salvation, it is time to check and ask yourself if you are really a child of God. Those who have tasted the mercies of God in salvation, will sincerely desire to live for Him and serve Him out of deep gratitude. If you belong to God, you can be very sure and confident that there is a sweet and blessed rest that remains for you! The question is, do you belong to God?

How long will this rest last? While physical rest is short-lived, this future rest is permanent and eternal. One day all the work that the Christian does on this earth will cease (verse 10). It will simply come to a halt, never to be repeated again. It is a full-stop! Just as God rested after His work of creation, so too the Christian will rest from his work of service on this earth. What does this mean for us? As long as we have breath and life, we ought to seize every moment to labour for the Lord (verse 11). Wherever God has placed you, live for Him and shine brightly as His witness!

But is this rest so important? What if we do not enter into it? Dear children, do not take this lightly! The Christian who walks the path of faith and obedience on earth, will one day enjoy the heavenly rest that God has promised. However, the end of those who wilfully choose the path of unbelief is not heaven but hell. Therefore, work out your salvation with fear and trembling. As you faithfully and diligently serve the Lord every day of your life, you will grow stronger in faith and in confidence of the blessed heavenly rest to come!

Thought: Am I a hardworking Christian, or an idle one?

Prayer: Father in Heaven, help me to serve You faithfully as I wait for the day of blessed heavenly rest. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.