Exodus 16:22-30 In the spirit of Sabbath, we exercise dominion over all things

Exodus 16:22-30 In the spirit of Sabbath, we exercise dominion over all things

Truth

In the spirit of Sabbath, we exercise dominion over all things

The Sabbath rest is instituted to transform the mindset of slaves so that they may become heirs to reign over the promised land and the world (see figure below).

Joshua spoke of a rest that comes from possessing the land (see Joshua 22:4). Yet 400 years after they possessed the land, king David said they have not gotten that rest (see Psalm 95:11). For they still could not annihilate their enemies, but continued to struggle with them for generations. Therefore, before rest becomes a reality, before we can truly rule over the land in righteousness, there must first be rest in the soul.

The reason why ancient Israel cannot obtain rest is firstly: they cannot trust God or another to provide, for they trust only in their own ability to work and provide for themselves. Secondly, they cannot submit to God’s directives out of love and good will. Because slaves have a low capacity to trust and submit to a higher authority, they cannot receive the anointing to rule and reign over land. Even though the Israelites obeyed the Sabbath law religiously, their hearts remained hardened (see Psalm 95:7).

Similarly, many observed the Sabbath law by attending church worship services. But they continue to worry about their businesses and jobs. Their hearts are not at peace to listen to God’s directives and obey them. Like the people that came with Moses, such harbour unbelief and will be left out of God’s kingdom.

To Rest is to Rule and Reign

God, having created the earth in six days rested on the seventh,

By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested (Sabbath) on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested (Sabbath) from all His work which God had created and made. – Genesis 2:2-3

In resting, God continues to reign over His legacy to ensure its prosperity and longevity. Therefore, “rest” carries a connotation of peace while asserting absolute dominion over His handiwork, His legacy. Jesus shows His ability to rest and rule over the winds and the sea.

When He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered with the waves; but Jesus Himself was asleep. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing!” He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, “What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” – Matthew 8:23-27

How do we overcome weariness and burden?

We have to learn to let go and let God! We have to take our hands off the steering wheel and let God take the driver’s seat. Letting go is hard for one who sees himself highly, who thinks he can succeed with his own strength. But for him who is humble, who recognises his own weaknesses in the light of God’s infinite greatness, grace and anointing flows freely through him. Jesus rejoices after the disciples return bringing news of great exploits, and He said,

“I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, for this way was well-pleasing in Your sight.” – Matthew 11:25-26

In the same breathe, Jesus calls all to come to Him to rest. It is here, our souls become rested to obtain divine power and wisdom to rule over our circumstances. In so doing, we bring justice, righteousness and lasting prosperity to our families, communities and organisations we work with. Jesus said,

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath (see Matthew 12:8) has the authority to grant rest to all who are willing to let go and let Him. Putting on His yoke means trusting and obeying His directives on a moment by moment basis. And He promises that His yoke is definitely easier and lighter than ours.

Application

We must learn to get in touch with our own soul and listen to what it wants. Many numb their souls from the pain, self-blame, disappointments and burdens of life. Hence, they cannot feel their own souls any more. They lock up their souls like a Pandora’s box. They fear that once it is opened, they may spiral into the bottomless pit of depression. However, Jesus who overcame death and darkness promises rest and stability. When we learn to let go of our soul to Jesus, He has the ability to absorb all the darkness and set us on solid ground. And He will restore our soul with hope, wisdom, assurance and passion for life.

Dear Lord, I release all my fears, anxieties, regrets, and pride. I want you to take full control of my future. Heal the wounds and remove the darkness that has been festering in my soul. Cleanse me white as snow and create in me a new heart of rest in you. As I come to you, teach me how I can converse with you intimately. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.