Deuteronomy 5:13

Six days thou shalt labour, and do all thy work:

Deuteronomy 5:13 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy contains Moses’ final words to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. In this verse, Moses restates the fourth commandment of the Ten Commandments, which concerns the Sabbath day. The command to labour for six days is the opening clause of that commandment, and it is nearly identical to Exodus 20:9, where the same words were first given at Mount Sinai.

Meaning

The verse begins, “Six days thou shalt labour.” Here God establishes a pattern of work and rest. Work is part of God’s design for humanity, not a curse. Scripture records that God placed humans in the Garden of Eden to work and take care of it (Genesis 2:15). Labour is a means by which we fulfil responsibilities and contribute to society.

The phrase “and do all thy work” indicates that the Israelites were expected to complete their work during the six days allotted for labour. It promotes diligence and responsibility in fulfilling one’s tasks. The verse also implies that on the seventh day, the Sabbath, the Israelites were to rest. The Sabbath was a holy day set apart by God for rest and worship, serving as a reminder of God’s creative work and His deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt (Deuteronomy 5:15).

Biblical connections

The pattern of six days of work followed by rest echoes the creation narrative, where God worked six days and rested on the seventh (Genesis 2:2-3). The command to rest on the seventh day is further described in the following verse, Deuteronomy 5:14, as a day of rest belonging to the Lord. The Sabbath command is grounded in redemption: Israel is told to remember that they were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord brought them out with a mighty hand, which is why they are commanded to observe the Sabbath (Deuteronomy 5:15).

Application

While this verse specifically addressed the Israelites and their observance of the Sabbath, important principles apply today. Just as God commanded the Israelites to work diligently, we are called to be diligent and productive in our work, using our skills and talents to contribute to society and honour God.

The verse highlights the importance of balancing work and rest. God recognises the need for rest and refreshment. It is essential to establish a healthy rhythm in our lives that includes dedicated time for rest, rejuvenation, and worship.

While Christians are not bound by the specific regulations of Old Testament Sabbath observance, we can still set aside regular times for worship, rest, and reflection. This can be a day of the week or specific periods throughout the day when we intentionally seek God’s presence, engage in spiritual activities, and find renewal.

Resting on the Sabbath is an act of trust in God’s provision. It acknowledges that our ultimate security and well-being come from Him and not solely from our own efforts. By honouring the Sabbath, we demonstrate our reliance on God and His faithfulness.

Reflection

As believers under the New Covenant in Christ, our relationship with God is not solely based on observing specific regulations or days. However, the principles of work, rest, balance, and trust in God’s provision remain relevant and valuable. Reflect on how you can apply these principles in your own life, seeking God’s wisdom and guidance in finding the right balance between work and rest.