Sunday's Lesson Study - No Time

Read Genesis 2:15. What does it say about God's intention for humanity regarding work, even before sin?

God intended for Adam to take care of the garden. Manual labor is good for health, but as with all things it should not be done excessively.The key to a happy and healthy life is balance. One author says this about manual labor.

"Each should acquire a knowledge of some branch of manual labor by which, if need be, he may obtain a livelihood. This is essential, not only as a safeguard against the vicissitudes of life, but from its bearing upon physical, mental, and moral development. Even if it were certain that one would never need to resort to manual labor for his support, still he should be taught to work. Without physical exercise, no one can have a sound constitution and vigorous health; and the discipline of well-regulated labor is no less essential to the securing of a strong and active mind and a noble character.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 601 (1890)."

All work done during the six days prepares us the for rest on the seventh day.The cycle of life consists of work then rest. One can not be fully enjoyed without the other.Jesus understood the importance of taking time aside to rest.

Read Mark 6:30–32, 45–46. What do these texts say to us about the need for rest, regardless of what we are doing and how important our work might be?

Jesus here asks the disciples to take some time to rest because they were so busy they did not even have time to eat. In another setting we find Jesus sending away His disciples and the crowds so that pray alone.

We must find time to rest from all of the activities of life. From these passages we see it was necessary even for the Son of God to take a rest from work how much more should we.

Jesus gives us the example that we all can follow.

What things drive you? What things motivate you? What things cause you to work the hardest? Whatever they are, however noble and good they might be, you need to ask yourself if they are worth ruining you health over.

The benefits that we appear to get from ruining our health can not be enjoyed if we have no health to enjoy them with.

Prayer: Father Thank you for the example you have given us in Christ that we must take time to rest. Please help us to rest properly so we can be strong mentally, physically, and emotionally. In Jesus name amen.

I would like to accept the rest Jesus offers.