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Sabbath-Rest

Hebrews 4:9 There remains then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God;

I have spent quite some time studying this verse and trying to figure out what in the world Paul meant by "Sabbath-rest".  Sabbath translates into "rest", so I was quite confused.  "'Rest'-rest"?  After reading passages in Genesis and Exodus, reading a little before and a little after the focus verse, I have an understanding of "Sabbath-rest".  "Sabbath-rest" is believing in the finished work of Christ and having faith in His promise.  Paul warned the Hebrews of falling into disbelief.  We are guilty of this when we try to take back our own work to gain salvation and be sanctified.  Disbelief was the Israelites struggle in the desert.  They didn't trust God, even when He provided exactly as He promised.  We will experience Sabbath-rest when we believe that we are forgiven through Jesus' death for our sins and have faith in our resurrection through the resurrection of Jesus.  Belief and faith are possible through the Holy Spirit.  I believe in the finished work of the cross of Christ and I have unwavering faith in His promise of eternal life through resurrection.  What incredible peace and joy to experience "Sabbath-rest" through the Spirit!

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