Topical Encyclopedia In the modern context, a vacation is understood as a period of rest and relaxation away from one's usual work or responsibilities. While the Bible does not explicitly mention vacations as we understand them today, the concept of rest and taking time away from labor is deeply rooted in Scripture.Sabbath Rest The principle of rest is first introduced in the creation narrative. Genesis 2:2-3 states, "By the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on the seventh day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all the work of creating that He had done." This divine rest sets a precedent for the Sabbath, a day of rest commanded for the Israelites in the Ten Commandments: "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God" (Exodus 20:8-10). Feasts and Festivals In addition to the weekly Sabbath, the Israelites were commanded to observe various feasts and festivals, which often included periods of rest and celebration. These times were not only for physical rest but also for spiritual renewal and reflection on God's provision and faithfulness. Leviticus 23 outlines several of these appointed times, such as the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles, each serving as a reminder of God's deliverance and blessings. Jesus and Rest Jesus Himself recognized the importance of rest. In Mark 6:31 , He said to His disciples, "Come with Me privately to a solitary place, and let us rest for a while." This invitation came after a period of intense ministry, highlighting the need for physical and spiritual rejuvenation. Jesus' own practice of withdrawing to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16) further underscores the value of stepping away from daily demands to seek communion with God. Spiritual Rest Beyond physical rest, the Bible speaks of a deeper, spiritual rest found in Christ. Hebrews 4:9-10 states, "There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God; for whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His." This rest is a cessation from striving for salvation through works, resting instead in the finished work of Christ. Application for Today While the Bible does not prescribe vacations as they are known today, the principles of rest, reflection, and renewal are biblically endorsed. Christians are encouraged to balance work with rest, ensuring time for worship, family, and personal rejuvenation. In a world that often glorifies busyness, taking intentional time for rest can be a powerful testimony to trust in God's provision and sovereignty. Topical Bible Verses Colossians 4:1-18Masters, give to your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. Topicalbible.org 1 Peter 3:15 Greek 4981. schole -- leisure, hence disputation (that for which leisure ... ... of the alternate of echo; properly, loitering (as a withholding of oneself from work) or leisure, ie (by implication) a "school" (as vacation from physical ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4981.htm - 6k Library The vintage-Vacation Ended, I Gave Notice to the Milanese to ... As his Lungs were Affected, He Meditates Withdrawing Himself from ... A Peasant's Son The Holidays at Thagaste The Last Smile of the Muse These Things, My Brother Aurelius, Most Dear unto Me... And I Resolved in Thy Sight, not Tumultuously to Tear... In the House of Kimberker Practical Effects of Practical Truth Book Nine the End of the Autobiography. ... Resources What is a pastoral search committee? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the importance of the empty tomb? | GotQuestions.org Why did Queen Vashti refuse to appear before Xerxes? | GotQuestions.org Vacancy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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