Intentional Rest
“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” (NASB, Hebrews 4:12-13 – emphasis added)
The Word of God is powerful in our lives.
I have been studying, preaching, teaching Hebrews 4:12-13 for a long time, literally decades, but recently God helped me see something more clearly than ever: The first word, “for” (in 4:12), is there for a reason.
Recently I finished a sabbatical/rest time to simply be quiet before the Lord and His Word. I was reminded of the truth of Hebrews 4 – that sabbath rest is key to the Word of God doing what it does!
The writer of Hebrews mentions rest ten times in this passage. He mentions three kinds of rest:
- God’s rest on day seven of creation – 4:4 and 10;
- The rest of Israel upon taking the Promised Land – 3:11, 18-19;
- Promised rest – 4:1
Rest is key to engaging the Word of God; better yet, the Word of God best engages my life when I have seasons of intentional – quality and quantity – rest.
Rest is addressed in Hebrews 3:12-4:11. Then we have FOR…
The “for” in 4:12 explains why the author is talking about rest. He is talking about rest because it is important for the Word of God to do what God intends to do.
The challenge is this:
- How many rest periods am I taking?
- Where am I finding daily rest so God’s Word can do what He wants?
- Where am I finding weekly, monthly and annual rest periods?
- Do I have a sabbath season?
When we obey, God works; when we pursue Him, His Word comes alive in us.
- How are you doing with rest?
- Who can you talk to in your network to further rest in your life?
Questions? Let’s talk.
