5 Easy Ways to Keep the Sabbath Holy

The third commandment tells us to “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy” (Exodus 20:8): 

“Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.”

Exodus 20:9–10

The Bible clearly states that we should spare the Sabbath day for God’s worship. Most people today interpret “keeping the Sabbath holy” as going to church on Sunday morning. Traditionally, this has also meant not doing any extra work or activities on that day, setting it aside to reflect on God.

But have you ever found yourself asking, “How can I keep the Sabbath holy with all life’s demands?” This is an important point of reflection. So many of us today work on Sundays. For others, Sundays may be our only day “off” to run errands or accomplish extra tasks.

How can we meet our daily needs and still honor God as commanded in His Word? We should still attend church and devote time to God as much as possible, showing Him that He takes priority in our hearts. But just how practical is it to honor God by actually resting on the Sabbath?

Despite your busy schedule, there is always a way to honor God, even while running your errands.

How Can We Make the Sabbath Holy with the Demands of Modern Life?

1. Listen To Radio Sermons or Podcasts.

Whenever possible on Sunday, I listen to short sermons on my phone, using my earpiece. I can easily navigate through my catalog of radio stations, switch to my favorite frequency, place my phone in my pocket, and listen to the word of God as I handle other duties. This has proven to be a solid option for me, since I tend not to waste any time between tasks.  

2. Read the Bible Digitally.

Modern life isn’t all bad. Today’s technology allows us to comfortably download a Bible app onto a device and read verses alone at our convenience. You can even bookmark areas to revisit later for even more insight. You can also subscribe to a Bible verse service like this one from Operando, which emails you daily scriptures on which to meditate.

This can help keep your soul nourished and give you the necessary strength to carry on with your duties, knowing that you are keeping God at the front of your mind. 

3. Spend Some Cash on A Charitable Cause.

You can be a blessing to others by donating to a charity or even sending a personal bit of help to someone you know who needs it. Maybe you can help support a local food pantry or assist an elderly parent with their medical bills. Apps like PayPal and Venmo allow you to do this on your phone in just a few seconds. 

4. Check on Family and Friends.

Throughout your day, take a minute to call or text a family member, close friend, or church acquaintance to see how they are doing. You may know someone who is struggling, or maybe it’s just been a while since you last got together. This is a great way to cultivate fellowship and help support others for the glory of God.

5. Join a Church Chat Group.

Become a part of your church’s WhatsApp group or a smaller Christian WhatsApp fellowship group. This will help you stay connected to other believers all day long. Many of these chat groups offer daily Bible verses, words of encouragement, and real-life testimonies that can help you grow along your journey of faith.

There’s no substitute for spending the day devoted to God. But keeping your mind and heart on Him can keep you connected to the Lord even when you struggle to find time for spiritual rest.

The Lord promises to bless us when we stay faithful to Him and obey His word. Pray every day for God’s protection as you focus more on Him in your work and personal life. As you move closer to God even in spite of life’s demands, He will be your guiding light toward a more fulfilling and victorious life.