Rejuvenating Rest
Bible in a Year: Exodus 36-38; Matthew 23:1-22
Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish. Hebrews 4:11
Today's Scripture: Hebrews 4:1-4, 6-7, 9-11
Insight
The book of Hebrews urges Jewish believers in Jesus not to abandon their faith in Him and revert to a form of Judaism that didn’t acknowledge Him as the Messiah. Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus is God’s ultimate revelation (1:1-3)—greater than the angels (2:5, 9) and greater than Moses (3:3)—and that Israel’s Scriptures point to the fulfillment God brought through Him. In chapter 4, this theme of fulfillment is explained as the ultimate Sabbath rest, made possible through Christ, the great high priest (vv. 8-11, 14-16).
During a birthday party, five-year-old Mia enjoyed playing, singing “Happy Birthday,” eating cake, and watching her friend open gifts. When everyone went outside to play, Mia said, “Mom, I’m ready to go.” They thanked their host. Pulling out of the driveway, Mia’s mom asked her to share the best part of her day. “Leaving,” said Mia. Smiling, she fell asleep before they turned the corner.
Even if we don’t realize we’re exhausted, we all need physical, mental, and emotional rest. God also provides divine rest when we accept both the good news of salvation through Christ and daily spiritual rest as the Spirit enables us to live for Christ by faith. Those who place their trust in God can depend on His unending presence, unlimited power, and unchanging promises. Saved through Christ’s work on the cross, we can rest in the peace of His sufficiency (Hebrews 4:1-4). We can experience divine rest as a guarantee fulfilled eternally now and when Jesus comes again (vv. 5-8).
“Anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his” (v. 10). So, secured in Christ, we can enjoy a hope-filled life of surrender and loving obedience as we trust and rely on Him. Only He can provide rejuvenating rest yesterday and today and forever.
Reflect & Pray
How does believing God enable you to rest in the surety of your salvation and rest physically, emotionally, and mentally each day? What has kept you from resting in God’s promises in the past?
Faithful God, thank You for being my enduring resting place.