Sabbath & Lawful Order

Exodus 16-18

Part One: Sabbath, The Gift

The Lord commands, “…Tomorrow will be a day of complete rest, a holy Sabbath day set apart for the Lord.…“ Exodus‬ ‭16‬:‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬ To make sure His people understand the importance of Sabbath, God lets Moses know, ”…I will test them in this to see whether or not they will follow My instructions.“ Exodus‬ ‭16‬:‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Why is God adamant about this holy day? ”They must realize that the Sabbath is the Lord’s gift to you.…“ Exodus‬ ‭16‬:‭29‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Why? Because when God offers us something, He isn’t being flippant about the value of the gift. He wants us to understand it’s worth so we will benefit from it.

Part Two: The First Judicial Court System

Later, we find Moses talking to his father-in-law, Jethro. ”…The people come to me to get a ruling from God.” Exodus 18:15

In great wisdom, Jethro suggests what appears to be the very first judicial court system. “Teach them God’s decrees, and give them His instructions. Show them how to conduct their lives. But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten.“ Exodus‬ ‭18‬:‭15‬, ‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Capable and honest. I’ve experienced firsthand there’s no justice without it.