Words of Encouragement

‘Plant and harvest your crops for six years, but let the land be renewed and lie uncultivated during the seventh year. Then let the poor among you harvest whatever grows on its own. Leave the rest for wild animals to eat. The same applies to your vineyards and olive groves.

‘You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working. This gives your ox and your donkey a chance to rest. It also allows your slaves and the foreigners living among you to be refreshed.‘”

Exodus 23:10–12

encouragement for today

The principle of rest applies to all of creation, from the land to animals to people. Do you abide by the principle of rest? Do you allow enough time for yourself and those under your care to be refreshed? Do you take enough vacation days off? It’s not a luxury, according to these verses. One day per week is for rest and refreshment, not as a legalistic duty but as a gift. Enjoy the gift of rest at least once a week.