The word “Sabbath” comes from an old Hebrew word that means to cease or stop doing something. Lately, due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have had to stop doing a lot of things. We aren’t able to go out to eat, visit with friends, or attend events. Our culture is used to being on the go, so it almost feels like we are being forced to take a Sabbath. But the Sabbath had purpose. And maybe this time of forced rest has purpose, too.

Not only is rest a physical need; it is a spiritual need. And more than that, it is a command from God, “Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest” (Exodus 34:21). The Sabbath is a blessing from God. He desires to refresh your body and soul. Consider looking at this quarantine as a gift from the Lord rather than missed opportunities for fun or work. Spend time with Him. Talk to Him. Praise Him.

Gain more understanding as you read 10 quotes from Billy Graham on the Sabbath:

“God knows we need rest, and one of the reasons He established the Sabbath was to give us rest. One of the Ten Commandments states, “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day … you shall not do any work” (Deuteronomy 5:13-14).

“God’s plan…was to use the Sabbath to turn our hearts and minds toward Him. In other words, He wants us to set aside one day of the week as a special time of worship and reflection on God’s Word.”

“Nothing can calm our souls more or better prepare us for life’s challenges than time spent alone with God.”

“God told us to set aside one day out of seven for a very good reason: He knew we needed it. If we work all the time, not only will we wear out physically, but we’ll also neglect our relationship with God.”

“We observe the Sabbath best when we use it for both rest and worship.”

“There’s no rest in any other direction. He [Christ] alone is the source of life and joy and soul rest.”

“Our souls also need renewing—and that’s why the Sabbath should also be a time for worship and instruction in God’s Word. Jesus regularly attended worship on the Sabbath (e.g., Luke 4:14-16).”

“I’m afraid we’re in danger of forgetting this commandment today—but when we do, we pay a price both physically and spiritually.”

“God loves us, and He wants to bless us by giving us rest and restoring our souls.”

“Learn to shut out the distractions that keep your from truly worshipping God.”

You can have the rest Billy Graham talks about. Find peace with God.