The Ten Words (Part 7): Built Different

TO START: In The Ten Words series, we explore the personal and practical foundations God gives in the Exodus story, often known as the Ten Commandments. In the fourth message, we explore God’s guidance to set aside time each week to honor and delight in the goodness of the Lord. For followers of Jesus, practicing rest becomes a weekly reminder of the freedom we’ve received in His name and a foretaste of the new creation yet to come.

TO READ: Exodus 20:8-11

TO DISCUSS:

(1.) What day of the week feels the slowest & which feels the most hectic during this time in your life?

(2.) Why do you think God emphasizes the order of creation and His rest on the seventh day in Exodus 20:11?

(3.) Which category of work feels hardest for you to step away from right now between working or contributing, spending or purchasing, emotional stress, and technology? Why?

(4.) Where in your life might God be inviting you to slow down and more intentionally notice and celebrate His blessings & goodness?

(5.) What steps, if any, have you taken to practice Sabbath by setting aside time to honor and delight in God’s goodness now and His promises for the future?

TO CLOSE/TO PRAY:  

Leader: “God, you are Elohim, the Creator who formed the world in wisdom and rested in delight. As we come to You now, help us slow our breathing and quiet our hearts.” (Pause for 20-30 secs)

Leader: “Lord, we bring You the pace of our lives. Show us what has been hurried, heavy, or overwhelming this week.” (Pause for reflection) 

Leader: Invite the group to share anything that emerged from silent reflection on this. 

Leader: “Father, reveal what feels hardest to step away from right now — work, productivity, spending, stress, technology, or something else. Help us notice what we cling to for control or security. (Pause for reflection) 

Leader: Invite the group to share anything that has emerged from this. 

Leader: “Holy Spirit, teach us to delight. Let our rest become worship, let our stillness become trust. We receive Your invitation to slow down. We receive Your grace & Your rest. In Jesus’ name, Amen.