Commandment IV:
Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
Exodus 20:8
Honoring the Sabbath is not only a time of rest but it is a day “sanctified at the time in the mind and purpose of God.”* This was not something given to us to be useful but necessary. God himself took a day of rest. In this fourth commandment we are recognizing God in our lives and that there is a greater purpose and significance to our lives.”One day in seven is to be kept holy. Six days are allotted to worldly business, but not so as to neglect the service of God, and the care of our souls… “ (Mathew Henry)
- a day of rest from worldly labour
- for the health and happiness of mankind
- the time for taking care of the soul
What does this commandment teach us?
First:
This commandment elevates the human above a beast of burden by insisting on a day of rest.
Second:
It is a reminder that we are meant to be free.
Third:
Honor the Sabbath as it brings you faith in God.
Consider and Ponder:Â Teach your children the proper care of the soul is important to God. He knows we need time to focus solely on Him to strengthen our faith, our families and our souls.
*See The Marrow of Sacred Divinity by William Ames, translated by William H. Gross, OntheWing.org.