Discussion Guide
Work and rest are not separate from our spiritual lives—they are part of how God created us to live. We were made in God’s image to be active, productive, and creative, but we were also commanded to stop and make room for stillness. Technology is one of those things that can be a helpful tool, but it can also distract us from meaningful work or keep us from true rest. This week, we will consider whether our daily rhythms reflect God’s design for both work and Sabbath.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Appetizer:
What’s your automatic go-to for unplugging from work and responsibilities?
Main Course:
Read Genesis 1:27-28, 2:15:
• After humans were created, what was the first thing God did?
• What responsibilities did God give humanity?
• How does the fact that you are made in the image of an active and creative God change the way you view your work or responsibilities?
Read 2 Thessalonians 3:10-11:
• What command had Paul given the believers concerning a person who was not willing to work?
• Compare the contrast Paul makes between being busy at work and being a busybody.
• Think of what might be keeping you busy but not accomplishing something meaningful or helpful.
Read Exodus 20:8-11:
• What were the Israelites commanded to do with the Sabbath day?
• Who was included in the command to stop working, and what reason does this passage give for this?
• Discuss the things in our world that make it difficult for us to stop working, disconnect from distractions, and intentionally rest with God?
Dessert: Optional Deeper Dive
Read Psalm 46:10:
• What does God remind His people to do?
• What are we meant to recognize in this stillness?
• What distraction or habit most often keeps you from being still with God?
Action Step: Now for us to put into practice God’s Words. Let’s practice both sides of the rhythm God designed:
• Choose one responsibility, project, or act of service and give it your full effort.
• Set aside a specific period of time to stop working, silence your devices and surroundings, and be still with God.
At the end of the week, consider what purposeful work helped you create or contribute, and what you noticed when you became still.