There has been one thing that the Lord has been revealing to me recently that holds a great amount of importance, Sabbath. Many are taught to believe that a day of Sabbath is just another day off work, but there lies so much more behind the word. While I have been on the World Race, a day of Sabbath has been a day to be with God and to honor Him in whatever He has planned. This has not been an easy task for me to accomplish.
I am one who enjoys to go and do, and go and do, repeatedly. I am a hard worker and there is a part of me that feels like I need to be doing something most of the time. This “something” can look like joining people at the beach, working on storytelling at a coffee shop, or even renting ATVs all on our days off. I not only have not done this well on the race but back home I did it very poorly. Don’t get me wrong, I love to rest, but I frequently find myself planning things when I need to be sitting before the Throne.
God has given us a day of rest! We should be rejoicing in the gift given where we get a whole day to fully rest in Christ alone. He wants to spend time with us and show us more of who He is, so why would I prioritize my own desires over what God has before me?
During our time in Costa Rica, I have been learning what it looks like to truly Sabbath. This looks like giving up certain ventures or tasks, especially working on blogs.
A couple of Sabbaths ago I decided to not plan a single activity for the day, however, I wanted to partake in something fun. God is just too kind and He plans out every detail perfectly. I got to go out and ride bikes to beautiful, unexpected views, but during the bike ride I heard the Lord whisper to me “look up”. I was very hesitant to take my eyes off the rocky, unsteady, and anything but straight road. Once I looked up, I was surrounded by a breathtaking view. This was a sweet reminder of being obedient and faithful to God, as well as trusting Him that I wouldn’t crash. Continuing down the road, I was overflowing with joy and peace. Our Father never fails to show up.
There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:9-13
We came across a macaw tree during our ride. It is absolutely huge and many beautiful macaw parrots call it home!
“Look up,” the Lord says… so I do and this is what I see. My God is SO good!
Fun fact: I rode a cruiser bike, not a mountain bike. Well, we did have to put the chain back on a couple of times.
From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalms 61:2
I’d like to encourage you to have a Sabbath; if you already do, give it over to the Lord completely and pick up whatever He lays before you! I pray that you boldly take each step with the God above all and know that He is always faithful. I would also love to hear stories from your Sabbath, so please comment below or email me personally!
with all my love,
PJ
Wise words and beautiful photos. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
Awesome views. Beautiful words of encouragement. So proud of you and the work you are doing. Love you
Beautiful testimony and awesome words of encouragement for us all. Thank you for sharing your personal Sabbath. Love and prayers for you, your team, and the entire squad.
Beautiful testimony and awesome words of encouragement for us all. Thank you for sharing your personal Sabbath. Love and prayers for you, your team, and the entire squad.