Find Rest for Your Soul

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, 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 28:11 NIV).

The fourth commandment of God's Big Ten says, "Remember the Sabbath Day and keep it holy." The Sabbath in the Old Testament, the day God rested from creation, was on Saturday. However, Jesus rose from the grave the day after the Sabbath, and today we keep that day holy. Some of your friends may not understand why you go to church and Sunday school. The post, "Jesus Loves Me," http://sue-tornai4kids.blogspot.com/2011/05/jesus-loves-me.html, is based on a true story from one of my Sunday school students, and I hope it helps you make tough decisions about committing yourself to sports that require you to play on Sundays.

Application
When we know how much Jesus loves us and become familiar with His gentle ways, we want to be more like Him. He was persecuted for healing people on the Sabbath, but His compassion is not against God's law. What ways do you keep God's day holy?

Prayer
Lord Jesus, help us to be more like you, loving and compassionate, and keep Your day holy. Amen.

Don't Misuse God's Name

The third commandment of God's Big Ten is, "Do not misuse God's name. Yet, I hear people say, "Oh my god!" even though they are not thinking about God at all. The TV show OMG uses the acronym that means the same. Other times people say "Jesus" or "Jesus Christ" when they are not praying to or talking about our Lord. Such careless use of God's name grieves Him. It is down right disrespectful to our God.

God loves us and calls us by our names. He wouldn't think of calling us by any other name. If he did, we probably wouldn't answer. Have you heard Him call your name? I have and it makes me feel loved. It makes me feel special. We should respond to God's call by returning the favor--by saying His name with reverence.


Application
I wouldn't like for you to say my name in a curse. Would you like me to yours? I didn't think so. Let's  not use God's name unless we are praying or speaking reverently of Him.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, help us to use your name with love and care. We pray for the people who think nothing of using your name so carelessly. Teach them your ways, Oh Lord. Show them your paths." Amen.