Whether you want to honor God’s commands more deeply or simply create a restful, meaningful Sabbath experience, understanding how preparation is approached in Scripture is essential.
This post gathers Bible verses about Sabbath preparation, explains their context, and offers practical insight for today.
Why Sabbath Preparation Matters
Preparation for the Sabbath is more than a ritual—it’s an act of faith and obedience.
The Bible sets a clear pattern for setting aside time, work, and distractions to rest as God commanded.
By preparing in advance, believers free themselves to fully enjoy spiritual rest and worship.
Key Old Testament Verses on Sabbath Preparation
1. Exodus 16:22-23 (Gathering Double for Sabbath)
On the sixth day, the Israelites gathered twice as much manna, anticipating the command not to gather food on the Sabbath:
“And it came to pass, that on the sixth day they gathered twice as much bread, two omers for one man: and all the rulers of the congregation came and told Moses.
And he said unto them, This is that which the LORD hath said, To morrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the LORD: bake that which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning.” -(Exodus 16:22-23 KJV)
Application: God instructed Israel to prepare their food beforehand, teaching us to anticipate Sabbath and make necessary arrangements in advance.
Nowadays is the same: we are to bake and cook our meals before the Sabbath.
2. Exodus 20:8-10 (The Command to Remember)
“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: “ – (Exodus 20:8-10) KJV
Application: Preparation is implied—you are given six days to finish your work so you can keep the Sabbath holy.
3. Leviticus 23:3 (A Day of Rest and Assembly)
“Six days shall work be done: but the seventh day is the sabbath of rest, an holy convocation; ye shall do no work therein: it is the sabbath of the LORD in all your dwellings.” (Leviticus 23:3, KJV)
Application: Preparing ahead enables participation in worship gatherings and rest.
New Testament Reference to Sabbath Preparation
1. Luke 23:54-56 (Jesus’ Burial and the Preparation Day)
“And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.
And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid.
And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment. ” (Luke 23:54-56, KJV)
Application: The early believers observed a “Preparation Day” before the Sabbath, completing all tasks beforehand in order to rest.
Practical Ways to Honor Sabbath Preparation
- Plan and finish work, cooking, and cleaning before Sabbath.
- Set spiritual intentions: Lay out time for worship, prayer, or fellowship.
- Communicate with the household or family about Sabbath plans.
- Remove distractions, allowing time for true rest and reflection.
Conclusion: Embracing the Gift of Sabbath Rest
The Bible offers clear instruction and inspiring examples of Sabbath preparation.
By structuring our week to anticipate rest, we honor God’s design and invite peace and renewal into our lives.
Sabbath preparation isn’t just about following rules; it’s about making room to meet with God, and family, in meaningful rest.
Ready to deepen your Sabbath journey? Start preparing today—just as the Bible teaches.
My Letter To A Sunday Keeper – Sabbath Documentary
The Days of Noah – Powerful Documentary (Video Format)
Bible Studies – Written Format
