John Stanko

"Do not bring a load out of your houses
or do any work on the Sabbath, but keep
the Sabbath day holy, as I commanded
your ancestors" - Jeremiah 17:22.

Every other nation at the time of Jeremiah lived for business, idolatry or simply survival. Israel was never to be like those nations, but was rather to live for worship and God's service. That was represented by Israel taking a day off from work, a day that was to be devoted to family, rest, worship and the acknowledgment that the Lord was their God. The Sabbath was also a reminder to the Israelites that they were not to fit God into their work at their convenience but that He was Lord of their work. Leaders would do well to remember that there is more to their lives (or should be more) than simply work and production. They should also be mindful that they don't exist to work but the work exists to teach them about God and to fulfill His purpose and plan.

LEADERSHIP STEP: Did you ever think that you don't exist to work but that the work exists to give something to you? Your Step today is to reflect on these questions: what has your work given to you (except money)? How has your work enriched your life and deepened your walk and relationship with the Lord? What has your work taught you about God and His purpose for you and the world? If you aren't happy with your answers, then reevaluate what you do and why.