Rest
Digging Deeper Study - Rest
Key Bible Verses
Mark 2:23-27
Digging Deeper
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song, I praise him. (Psalm 28:7)
With 2024 coming to a close, we come to God with a sense of gratitude and expectation. We have been blessed with God’s faithfulness and love and given the gift of salvation through our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
As we approach the end of the year, it's natural to reflect and plan. This is a perfect opportunity to rest, pray, and seek God's guidance for the year ahead. Let us also consider forming a small habit or two that will help us grow in our faith. Please see the Life Application section for some ideas and suggestions!
As we eagerly surrender this new year to God, we know He will give us the wisdom and direction we need. With His guidance, we can use everything in the new year for His glory and the expansion of His kingdom.
What Not To Miss
Why was it decided to do an online worship gathering this week?
Rest
Sabbath Rest
Sabbath Rest
In the Gospel of Mark 2:23-27, Jesus teaches about the principle of Sabbath rest.
According to the Old Testament, the disciples did not break any laws concerning the Sabbath, but they broke additional extra religious rules concerning the Sabbath that were added later.
Jesus teaches that He is the Lord of the Sabbath and talks about the true meaning and blessing of the Sabbath.
The Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath.
Jesus is teaching about the heartbeat behind a Sabbath rest. The Sabbath rest is for our blessing and is not a burden or extra rules and regulations to appease God. The Sabbath was created for our benefit, blessing, and enjoyment.
The Sabbath allows us to:
Renew the body physically.
Enjoy creation.
Seek the Lord spiritually.
Tell the world missionally about God’s rule and reign of the King of Glory.
Our heart's desire must be to experience the blessing of Sabbath rest.
Will you commit yourself to Sabbath rest in the coming weeks, months, and year?
Life Application
Here are some ideas as you consider growing your faith in the new year:
Commit to taking a weekly Sabbath rest.
Sign up for a Bible reading plan that will take 5 minutes daily. (Sign up for a Bible Reading Plan)
Use a resource to learn how to study the Bible. (Download "How to Study the Bible")
Develop a daily prayer time. (Daily Prayer Time Guide)
Take a Spiritual Assessment (Northland Church Markers of Spiritual Growth)
Join a LIFE2Group. (List of LIFE2Groups)
Small Group Discussion Questions
What is your favorite memory from 2024?
How can Sabbath rest be incorporated into your weekly rhythms?
What is one spiritual development goal you would like to set for yourself in 2025?
How can you incorporate daily prayer and Bible reading into your routine?
Where might God call you to serve in 2025 with your time, treasure, and talents?
Daily Devotional Bible Passages
Day 1: Dedication-Romans 12:1-2; Deuteronomy 6:5-7; Deuteronomy 10:12
Day 2: Renewal and Rest-Ephesians 4:15-16; Romans 12:2; Philippians 4;8
Day 3: Growth-2 Peter 3:18; Galatians 5:22; 2 Peter 1:5-7
Day 4: Expectancy-Deuteronomy 31:8; Philippians 4:13; Psalm 100:2
Day 5: Love-1 Corinthians 16;14; Colossians 3:14; John 15:13
Prayer
Lord, as 2024 ends and 2025 begins, I pray that You will make my relationship with You stronger and deeper. Help me to practice Sabbath rest. Let me grow in my faith and love for Your word. May I become more like Jesus daily in my thoughts, words, and actions. As I face challenges and circumstances that may be good or difficult, give me the courage to be faithful, surrender all my fears and doubts to you, and trust in Your perfect timing. May I be a light that shares your love and truth with a world that is dark and in need of a Savior.
