Hobbs Community Church
Hobbs Community Church

Weekly Family Devotional

Redeeming Rest: Practicing Sabbath

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Read Together

Psalm 23:1-2 (ESV)

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.

Talk About It

Sheep are not very good at taking care of themselves. They wander off, they get scared, and they cannot find safe water on their own. That is why sheep need a shepherd — someone who knows where the soft grass grows and the calm water flows. King David wrote, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." That means, "I won't lack anything I truly need." Then David says something beautiful: the shepherd makes me lie down. A sheep lies down only when it feels full, safe, and protected. A good shepherd works hard so his sheep can rest. That is what God is like for you. People today try all kinds of things to feel peaceful — apps, music, videos about relaxing. Real rest comes from trusting your Good Shepherd to take care of you. That takes trust! Long ago, God's people stopped their work one day every week while the nations around them kept planting, building, and training soldiers. Israel had to believe God would still provide. And He did. Even in dark, scary valleys, God says, "I am with you." You can rest, because He is good.

For Parents to Explain

Good Shepherd, You lead us, feed us, and stay beside us even in dark valleys. We don't have to be afraid, and we don't have to hurry. We trust You to take care of our family. Help us follow Your voice. Amen.

Family Activities

Shepherd and Sheep

  1. Blindfold one child to be the "sheep," and choose a parent to be the "shepherd."
  2. Build a "valley" to cross using soft obstacles like pillows and chairs.
  3. The shepherd guides the sheep safely across using only his or her voice.
  4. Switch roles, then talk about it: "Was it easier to walk when you trusted the voice? How do we listen for God's voice?"

Green Pastures Picnic

  1. Spread a blanket outside on the grass — or on the living room floor.
  2. Set out simple snacks and a cup of water for each person.
  3. Read Psalm 23:1–4 aloud, then lie back and look up quietly for one full minute.
  4. Go around and finish this sentence: "The Lord is my shepherd, so I don't have to worry about ______."

Family Prayer

Have each person name one "valley" they need the Shepherd to walk with them through this week. Then share one story of a time God clearly took care of your family.