Counsel #23 — How to Observe Sabbath

Picture: Counsel #23 — How to Observe SabbathCCW 100.1

The verb “observe” has two meanings: (1) complying with a legal requirement, and (2) celebrating a singular event. The Sabbath is both God’s legal requirement and a weekly singular event to celebrate. Oftentimes, it’s easy to follow one of these meanings while neglecting the other. The Sabbath is God’s requirement, but it is also an occasion to be celebrated. To fully enter into the depth of God’s Sabbath, we must experience both meanings of “observe.”^{[159] https://adventistreview.org/news/the-ten-sabbath-activities-everyone-can-enjoy/} CCW 100.2

“You must observe the Sabbath rather than doing anything you please on my holy day. You must look forward to the Sabbath and treat the Lord’s holy day with respect. You must treat it with respect by refraining from your normal activities, and by refraining from your selfish pursuits and from making business deals.” Isaiah 58:13, 14 NETCCW 100.3

“All who love God should do what they can to make the Sabbath a delight, holy and honorable. They cannot do this by seeking their own pleasure in sinful, forbidden amusements. Yet they can do much to exalt the Sabbath in their families and make it the most interesting day of the week.” Ellen White in Child Guidance, p. 536CCW 100.4

Reflect: What is your default mindset on the Sabbath: “Comply” or “celebrate”? What steps can you take to experience both Sabbath aspects?CCW 100.5