The book of Daniel is one of the most fascinating records of the Old Testament. Filled with personal stories, prophecy, history and life lessons galore, I have often found myself turning to the pages of this book to read again of the way in which God spoke to and delivered His people.

Daniel, taken into exile, retained a disciplined and flourishing life. He did not allow the culture around him, nor the pressures to conform to change his personal values or conduct. How did he do that? What enabled him to have a life that flourished in the midst of exile?

People who live such lives exhibit tendencies of discipline it is true but is also true that their lives are strengthened and led by the Spirit of God. In His strength, they establish a rhythm of life through the Spirit of God.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, tolerance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22,23

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit, for without Me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5

“…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” – Philippians 2:12,13

Think about all the categories of our lives… eating, sleeping, hobbies, work, sport, family, games, travel, reading, writing, finance, sexuality, rest, recreation, marriage, children, health and I add Sabbath.

All these things could take a blog post on its own.

But Sabbath is one thing we could probably spend more time on. Remember Jesus said that Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. I am convinced that if we took Sabbath more serious we would likely all be healthier.

I remember asking the academic dean from a Christian university a number of years ago to come speak at Glenmore Temple. I offered to take him and his darling wife out of lunch afterwards. They declined wanting to keep their practice of keeping Sabbath but arranged with us to have a meal together later in the week. I was taken aback, and at the same time admired their discipline and commitment.

To keep the Sabbath means taking control of our calendarand our work. It means being aware of our need to have a day that serves our renewal. And here’s the thing—the more we are in relationship with God, the more we become like God.